Troops Arrest Suspected Suicide Bomber, Seize IED Materials In Borno
Troops from Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a suspected suicide bomber and seized materials for making Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State. The suspect, Abubakar Mustapha, was detained on Monday, December 29, by the 152 Task Force Battalion in coordination with other security agencies in Bama Local Government Area. Lt Col Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, Northeast Operation Hadin Kai, confirmed the arrest on Tuesday. Mustapha was apprehended at the Banki Central Mosque while in possession of primed IED components, suggesting a potential imminent attack. Preliminary investigations indicate that Mustapha is a native of Bama LGA and had additional materials linked to terrorist activities. He is currently undergoing interrogation to identify his sponsors, collaborators, and any connections to terrorist networks in the region. Lt Col Uba emphasized that troops continue to carry out aggressive patrols, intelligence-driven operations, and maintain a strong presence to prevent attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. He also urged the public to provide reliable intelligence to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. The military reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the North East, noting that troop morale and operational readiness remain high. The arrest follows a recent attack at Al-Adum Jumaat Mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, on December 24, where a suicide bomber killed five worshippers and injured 35 during evening prayers.