By SUMAILA OGBAJE

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, under Operation Desert Sanity IV and V, have recorded further operational successes with the discovery and neutralisation of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and the arrest of suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist logistics suppliers in Borno.

This is contained in a statement by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, on Sunday in Abuja.

Uba said the troops of 25 Brigade had on Dec 17, while conducting a Main Supply Route (MSR) patrol along the Damboa–Komala axis, discovered an IED.

He said the device was promptly secured and successfully detonated by the troops, ensuring the safety of troops and commuters along the route.

“In a separate operation based on credible intelligence, troops of OPHK deployed at a checkpoint along the Maiduguri–Bama Road, on Dec. 19, intercepted and arrested a Lagos-registered vehicle with plate number AKD 244 YE.

“The vehicle was conveying large quantities of food items and energy drinks, suspected to be logistics supplies intended for Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists operating around Kirawa Ward, Gwoza Local Government Area.

“Two suspects were arrested in connection with the incident. Items recovered include assorted food items and energy drinks, three mobile phones, an identity card, a ring, several sum of cash in Naira and CFA.

“The suspects, vehicle, and recovered items have been handed over to the appropriate military intelligence unit for further investigation and necessary action,” he said.

Uba said the military high command had commended the troops for their impressive efforts and urged them to sustain the operational tempo.

He assured that the military had remained resolute in its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action, disrupting their logistics networks, and ensuring the safety and security of citizens in the North East. (NAN)