The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has continued to record significant operational successes across the theatre with the arrest of suspected terrorists and their collaborators.

Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said troops also rescued kidnapped victims and recovered explosive devices during coordinated operations.

Uba, in a statement, said, “In a notable development, troops of OPHK deployed at Ngamdu, while conducting some operational engagements in Ngamdu town, apprehended two suspected terrorists identified as Haruna Adamu (32) and Ibrahim Adamu (20). Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects fled from Zamfara State to Yobe State. Items recovered from them include a smartphone, keypad phone, power bank, identification card, suspected illicit substances, charms, and other personal effects. The suspects have since been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.

“In a related operation, troops of 254 Battalion under Headquarters Sector 2 arrested a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP informant, Ali Muhammad (30), at Ngamdu Market. The suspect, who had been on the unit’s watchlist, was found in possession of cash, a keypad mobile phone, a wallet containing identification cards, charms, a knife, and an exercise book containing phone numbers of suspected terrorist contacts. He has been handed over to Sector 2 Headquarters for detailed interrogation. The arrest is considered a major disruption to the intelligence network of terrorist elements operating within the area.

“Similarly, troops of OPHK, during a night operation around the Mubi general area of Adamawa State, arrested five suspected drug peddlers found in possession of various items, including ammunition. The suspects are currently in custody undergoing further investigation. In another operation, troops of OPHK deployed in Madagali, in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), responded swiftly to a distress call on a kidnapping incident in Madagali Local Government, Adamawa State.

The joint team successfully rescued two kidnapped victims, Barnabas Apagu, 12, and Ruth Apagu, 10, while efforts are ongoing to secure the safe release of other abducted persons still in captivity.

“Additionally, troops of OPHK, deployed in the Kukareta area of Yobe State, recovered a hand grenade suspected to have been abandoned by fleeing terrorists. The explosive device was safely secured in line with established procedures.”

The Military High Command commended the troops for their gallantry and sacrifices, urging them to sustain the operational tempo. It equally reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to sustaining offensive operations aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities, protecting lives and property, and restoring enduring peace and economic stability across the North East region. Members of the public are encouraged to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations. (The Sun)

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