(SINL NIGERIA) Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have sustained intensified offensive operations across the North East under Operation DESERT SANITY V/SIEGE OPERATIONS, while ensuring peaceful Eid El Adha celebrations in parts of the region.
The Theatre Command disclosed that troops deployed in Ngoshe community provided security during Eid prayers at the Ngoshe Central Mosque, where they joined vigilantes and residents in the peaceful observance of the festival.
According to a statement on Wednesday signed by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba said the development reflects growing civilian confidence and improved security in an area previously threatened by terrorist activities.
The command noted that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to consolidate operational gains and facilitate the safe return of displaced persons to their communities.
The statement emphasised that prayers were also offered for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, peace in the North East, and national stability.
Similarly, troops of Headquarters 26 Task Force Brigade under OPHK maintained security during Eid prayers in Gwoza town, providing a safe environment for worshippers across designated mosques.
Senior military leadership also conveyed goodwill messages to troops in the frontline to boost morale and reinforce commitment to ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
In a separate operation in Gar Gwigwi village, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, troops acting on credible intelligence arrested three suspected criminals identified as Aliyu Mamadu, Umar Mohammed, and Adamu Aliyu.
The suspects were accused of terrorising residents and were apprehended without resistance after being identified by victims.
“Recovered items included mobile phones, wristwatches, charms, a dagger, cash, and a dane gun.
Military authorities said preliminary investigations revealed that the firearm belonged to Mallam Manu Ibrahim, a member of the Miyetti Allah group, who had reportedly been robbed a day earlier. The weapon has since been returned to its owner”.
In another development, troops in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator, identified as Alhaji Gambo, 33, during routine security checks at the entrance to Monguno town.
“Items recovered from the suspect included vehicle spare parts and personal effects. He is currently in custody for further investigation.
The military said all arrested suspects remain in custody while efforts continue to track down other criminal and terrorist elements operating within the theatre”.
The Theatre Command described the general security situation in the region as calm but unpredictable, adding that troops remain highly motivated and operationally effective.
It reiterated that Operation HADIN KAI remains committed to denying terrorists freedom of action, protecting civilians, and sustaining efforts towards lasting peace and stability in the North East.
Meanwhile, the Military High Authority also commended troops for their performance and urged them to sustain pressure on terrorist groups across the theatre of operations.
