Troops Foil Attack, Arrest Terrorists’ Courier With Bomb-making Materials in Borno

Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) operating under Sector 3 in Mongunu, Borno State, have successfully arrested a suspected terrorist courier who was transporting materials believed to be for making Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

In a joint operation with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), the troops apprehended the suspect at the entrance to Gubio Local Government Area on Thursday. The suspect, identified as Murktar Alhaji Chari (28), was found carrying bomb-making materials that were reportedly intended for a planned attack on MNJTF troops in Damasak town, Mobbar Local Government Area.

According to a statement from the Chief Military Information Officer of HQ MNJTF, Lt-Col Olaniyi Osoba, the intercepted materials included four empty 12kg cylinders, one empty 6kg cylinder, two carburettor gas canisters, two pressure regulators, and a hose. The materials were intended for a retaliatory attack by terrorists who had suffered recent losses, including the elimination of several members and the seizure of a significant weapons cache.

Osoba highlighted that the timely arrest and recovery of these materials had disrupted a potential terrorist attack and dealt a significant blow to the group’s operational capabilities. The suspect is currently in custody and providing information that is aiding ongoing investigations.

In response to the successful operation, Major General Ibrahim Ali, the Force Commander of MNJTF, commended the troops and CJTF for their vigilance and professionalism. He reaffirmed the MNJTF’s commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of the region.