Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have neutralised three terrorist suicide bombers during an intelligence-led operation along the Guduf–Pulka axis in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

Sources said the operation was conducted following credible intelligence and involved close collaboration between troops and local volunteer forces, leading to the interception of the terrorists before they could carry out planned attacks on civilians.

The sources said suicide vests and other improvised explosive device (IED) components found on the bombers were recovered and safely secured by the troops.

They added that the troops also inflicted heavy casualties on terrorist escorts accompanying the bombers, forcing surviving elements to flee into the Mandara Mountains under sustained pressure.

“During exploitation of the area, troops recovered four AK-47 rifles abandoned by the fleeing terrorists, while two motorcycles used by the terrorists were destroyed,” the sources said.

Preliminary intelligence assessment indicated that the neutralised suicide bombers were dispatched from the Mandara Mountains by the Ali Ngulde-led Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram.

The sources said troops of Operation Hadin Kai had intensified efforts to detect, track and neutralise suicide bombers and other terrorist elements operating from the enclave through enhanced human intelligence, communication intercepts and other intelligence-gathering measures.

They said the Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai, had continued to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies and community-based volunteer groups across Borno and Yobe States to forestall attacks on soft targets.

According to the sources, public enlightenment campaigns have also been stepped up to encourage residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or persons within their communities.

Operation Hadin Kai, the sources said, remained committed to sustaining offensive pressure on terrorist elements, degrading their operational capabilities and ensuring the safety and security of residents within the theatre of operations. (Zagazola)

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