Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Battalion, operating under Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI and Operation DESERT SANITY V, have arrested five suspected terrorist logistics suppliers in Borno State.

The suspects were apprehended at about 7:52 p.m. on Thursday, August 21, after surveillance personnel attached to the battalion’s CCTV system spotted them within the frontage of the military location.

A military Special Situation Report obtained by Zagazola Makama identified the suspects as Umar Mohammed, 60; Abubakar Goni, 42; Abba Ali, 39; Umaru Yusuf, 30; and Ibrahim Bukar.

Following the sighting, troops were immediately mobilised and successfully apprehended the five suspects.

Preliminary investigation indicated that the route used by the suspects had been identified as a Boko Haram terrorist logistics axis where troops routinely conduct strangulation operations aimed at disrupting the movement of fighters, weapons, food and other supplies.

During interrogation, the suspects claimed to be charcoal workers and baobab fruit pickers.

The military said the suspects were being profiled and would subsequently be handed over to the 7 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation.

The development forms part of sustained intelligence-led operations by troops to identify and disrupt terrorist logistics networks operating within the North-East.

The military further stated that the general security situation across the theatre remained calm but unpredictable, while troops maintained satisfactory morale and fighting efficiency. (Zagazola)