Troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI have neutralized a suspected logistics supplier to the Islamic State West Africa Province during a covert intelligence-led operation in Borno State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation was carried out at about 1:40 p.m. on Saturday following the interception of communications indicating plans to deliver supplies to ISWAP terrorists.
Acting on the intelligence, troops of the 222 Battalion, working in conjunction with local vigilantes, tracked and intercepted a male suspect carrying a sack containing suspicious items believed to be intended for the terrorists.
To confirm the suspect’s identity, troops dialed the phone number obtained from the intercepted communication. The mobile phone found in the suspect’s possession rang, confirming him as the individual linked to the planned delivery.
The suspect reportedly attempted to flee when confronted by the troops but was neutralized during the encounter.
A search of the sack revealed 74 bicycle inner tubes, 50 wristwatches and two loaves of bread, items consistent with the supplies mentioned in the intercepted communication.
Troops also recovered an Infinix Hot 20i mobile phone with the SIM card linked to the intercepted number, ₦4,100 in cash, an earpiece and a Moniepoint ATM card.
Military sources said the operation dealt another blow to ISWAP’s logistics network, which relies on civilian collaborators to transport food, communication devices and other essential supplies to fighters operating in remote enclaves.
The sources added that the morale and fighting efficiency of troops involved in the operation remain high as clearance and intelligence-driven operations continue across the North-East theatre.
By Zagazola Makama
