Nigerian military forces have achieved a significant breakthrough in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the North-East, as troops of Operation Hadin Kai intercepted two pick-up vans suspected of transporting vital logistics supplies to members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State. The operation, which was carried out in close collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), highlights the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led security efforts in the region.

According to a statement released by Lt Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai, the interception was the result of credible human intelligence. Security operatives received information about the movement of suspicious vehicles from Dapchi in Yobe State, heading towards the Magumeri general area of Borno State—a region known for insurgent activity. Acting swiftly on this intelligence, troops deployed tactically along the identified route and successfully intercepted the two pick-up vans.

Upon searching the vehicles, the troops recovered a wide array of items believed to be intended for ISWAP operatives. The recovered materials included two civilian vehicles, 31 spare tyres, 23 spare rims, two bicycles, 12 ignition key starters, three alternators, two bags of flour, one mattress, five bags of charcoal, 34 tubers of yam, two blankets, two nylons of garri, assorted adult and children’s clothing, one power bank, six mobile phones, and cash in various denominations. The diversity and quantity of these items suggest a well-organized attempt to supply insurgents with both essential and logistical support, potentially enabling them to sustain their operations in remote areas.

The drivers of the intercepted vehicles, along with the seized items, are currently in military custody. They are undergoing interrogation as part of ongoing counter-terrorism investigations. Authorities are working to determine the extent of their involvement and to uncover any broader networks that may be facilitating the supply of logistics to terrorist groups in the region.

Lt Colonel Uba emphasized that this successful operation underscores the critical role of intelligence-driven actions and the importance of collaboration between the military and local security partners. “This successful interception underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the sustained collaboration between troops and local security partners in disrupting terrorist logistics networks,” he stated. He further assured the public that the military remains resolute in its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of movement, cutting off their supply chains, and ensuring the safety and security of law-abiding citizens across the North-East.

The interception comes amid ongoing efforts by Nigerian security forces to dismantle the logistical and operational capabilities of terrorist groups such as ISWAP and Boko Haram. These groups have, for years, relied on clandestine supply routes and local collaborators to sustain their campaigns of violence and destabilization. By targeting these supply chains, the military aims to weaken the insurgents’ ability to operate and to protect vulnerable communities from further attacks.

This latest operation is part of a broader pattern of security successes in recent months. In a related development, troops of the 1 Brigade of the Joint Task Force, Operation Fasan Yamma, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services, recently intercepted a large cache of arms in Zamfara State. That operation, conducted in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, followed intelligence reports on the activities of suspected arms dealers linked to the Niger Republic, further demonstrating the reach and effectiveness of Nigeria’s security apparatus when supported by timely intelligence.

The ongoing collaboration between the military, local vigilante groups, and intelligence agencies is proving to be a formidable force against terrorism in Nigeria’s troubled North-East. As the military continues to adapt its strategies and leverage local partnerships, there is renewed hope that the tide may be turning against insurgent groups that have long plagued the region.

Security experts have lauded the recent successes, noting that cutting off logistics and supply lines is a critical step in undermining the operational capacity of terrorist organizations. They urge continued vigilance and cooperation among all stakeholders, including local communities, to ensure that such gains are sustained and expanded upon in the months ahead.

The Nigerian military has reiterated its commitment to maintaining pressure on terrorist groups and safeguarding the lives and property of citizens. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities, as collective action remains key to achieving lasting peace and security in the region.