Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
TROOPS of Operation HADIN KAI have successfully ensured the peaceful conduct of Eid el-Adha prayers across the North East theatre, while continuing to press home their advantage against criminal and terrorist elements, the military has said.
In a notable display of improving security, soldiers deployed at Ngoshe community provided robust security and prayed alongside vigilantes and local residents at the Ngoshe Central Mosque – a location previously menaced by terrorist groups.
“The development is particularly symbolic as the location was previously threatened by terrorist elements, underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing aggressive military operations and the gradual restoration of normalcy,” a military statement said.
The initiative forms part of wider efforts to consolidate operational successes and encourage displaced persons to return safely to their ancestral homes. Prayers were offered for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, lasting peace in the North East, and the nation as a whole.
Meanwhile, troops of the Headquarters 26 Task Force Brigade ensured comprehensive security coverage during Eid prayers at designated mosques in Gwoza town, creating a safe environment for worshippers. Senior military leadership delivered goodwill messages to personnel, boosting morale and reinforcing commitment to ongoing operations.
Criminal Network Disrupted
In separate operations, troops swiftly neutralised a robbery threat in Gar Gwigwi village, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, acting on credible intelligence.
Three suspected criminals – Aliyu Mamadu, Umar Mohammed, and Adamu Aliyu – were arrested without resistance after being positively identified by their victims. The suspects had been terrorising local residents.
Items recovered included mobile phones, wristwatches, charms, a dagger, cash, and a dane gun. Preliminary findings confirmed that the firearm belonged to Mallam Manu Ibrahim, a member of the Miyetti Allah group, who had been robbed a day earlier. The weapon has since been returned to its rightful owner.
In a related development, troops working with the Civilian Joint Task Force arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator, 33-year-old Alhaji Gambo, during routine security checks as he attempted to enter Monguno town. Vehicle spare parts and other personal effects were recovered from him.
All suspects are in military custody, with efforts under way to track down other members of criminal and terrorist networks within the theatre.
The Theatre Command noted that the general security situation remains calm but unpredictable, adding that troop morale and fighting efficiency remain high, with personnel demonstrating continued resilience, professionalism, and operational effectiveness.
Operation HADIN KAI said it remained resolute in its mandate to deny terrorist elements freedom of action, protect civilians, and sustain the momentum towards lasting peace and stability in the North East region.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, said the military high command had commended troops for their impressive battle performance and urged them to continue dominating the battlespace.
