Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recovered a large cache of high-calibre ammunition in the Bulumkutu Railway general area of Borno State, underscoring the effectiveness of sustained, intelligence-driven security operations in the North-East.
The recovery followed continued troop presence and follow-up actions after a recent cordon-and-search operation aimed at denying terrorist and criminal elements freedom of action, particularly in the aftermath of multiple suicide bombers neutralised or apprehended within the past week.
In a press statement, the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that at about 3:00 p.m. on 2 January 2026, troops received a distress call reporting the discovery of suspicious metallic objects concealed within a drainage channel in the Bulumkutu Railway area.
According to him, troops immediately mobilised to the location alongside Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams to secure the environment and assess the potential threat. A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of 1,270 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition warheads, including some live 12.7mm rounds, as well as power banks hidden inside the drainage channel.
Preliminary safety measures were promptly implemented to secure the site, while efforts are ongoing to drain the channel to ascertain whether additional dangerous items are present. Troops, in collaboration with the Police and other security agencies, continue to dominate the general area to ensure the safety of residents, protect critical infrastructure, and prevent any attempt by criminal or terrorist elements to retrieve the recovered items.
No casualties or untoward incidents were recorded during the operation. The general security situation in the area remains calm, with troops maintaining heightened vigilance in view of the dynamic threat environment.
The successful recovery highlights the importance of intelligence-led operations, sustained military pressure, and strong community cooperation in preventing potential security threats. It also reinforces the critical role of timely information from members of the public in enhancing collective security.
Headquarters Operation HADIN KAI has once again urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious items or movements to security agencies, stressing that collective responsibility remains vital to sustaining peace and security in the North-East.
