Troops Neutralise IEDs, Intercept Terror Logistics Suppliers In North-East

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recorded significant operational successes against terrorist elements in the North-East, including the neutralisation of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), the disruption of terrorist movements, and the arrest of suspected logistics suppliers linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

The achievements were disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday, and signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri.

According to the statement, troops sustained offensive operations against terrorist elements across the theatre between June 16 and 19, 2026, recording major successes in separate operations.

On June 16, troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team, working alongside the Quick Reaction Force (QRF), acted on intelligence provided by local residents regarding the emplacement of IEDs along the Biu–Buratai Road.

“Acting swiftly on the information, the troops conducted a fighting patrol to the affected area, where they identified and professionally detonated five IED cylinders planted by terrorists along the route,” the statement said.

The operation, according to the military, was completed without any casualty.

The statement further revealed that troops of the 153 Task Force Battalion recorded another success on June 17 while withdrawing from a picketing duty in Kirawa.

“The troops made contact with an unconfirmed number of terrorists mounted on approximately 60 motorcycles. Although the terrorists initiated the encounter by opening fire on the troops, the gallant soldiers responded with overwhelming and sustained firepower, compelling the insurgents to retreat in disarray towards Miyanti,” the statement said.

While the number of terrorist casualties could not be immediately confirmed, the troops recovered a cache of items believed to have been used by the insurgents.

The recovered items included 817 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, three motorcycles, two solar panels, 102 sachets of salt, one motorcycle tyre, two motorcycle tubes, and several other motorcycle spare parts.

In another operation on June 19, troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade Garrison recorded what the military described as “another breakthrough” following credible intelligence on terrorist logistics activities.

The statement said the troops intercepted and arrested two suspected Boko Haram Terrorists/Islamic State West Africa Province logistics suppliers during a routine stop-and-search operation at the brigade’s checkpoint.

The suspects were identified as Mohammed Bukar, also known as “Dege”, aged 35, and his apprentice, Iliyasu Abdullahi, aged 26.

“The suspects were apprehended in a cyan Volkswagen vehicle with registration number FGF-357-AG while conveying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and relief materials intended for BHT/ISWAP elements,” the statement said.

“These successful operations reaffirm the unwavering commitment of troops of Operation HADIN KAI to denying terrorists freedom of action, disrupting their logistics networks, and ensuring the safety and security of law-abiding citizens,” the statement noted.

The military also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence.

According to the statement, public cooperation remains critical to ongoing counter-terrorism efforts and the broader objective of restoring lasting peace and security across the region.