Borno Mosque Alert: Troops Arrest Suspected Suicide Bomber, Seize IED Materials

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a suspected suicide bomber and recovered materials meant for the manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State, averting what security sources described as a possible imminent attack.

The suspect, Abubakar Mustapha, was arrested on Monday, December 29, by troops of the 152 Task Force Battalion, working in collaboration with other security agencies, in Bama Local Government Area of the state.

Confirming the arrest in a statement on Tuesday, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North-East Operation Hadin Kai, Lt Col Sani Uba, disclosed that the suspect was apprehended at the Banki Central Mosque.

According to him, Mustapha was found in possession of primed IED components, raising serious concerns of an impending suicide attack.

“During the operation, the suspect was apprehended at the Banki Central Mosque with primed IED components in his possession, indicating a potential imminent attack,” Uba said.

Lt Col Uba revealed that preliminary investigations showed that the suspect hails from Bama LGA and was linked to further terrorist-related materials.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is from Bama Local Government Area and had additional materials associated with terrorist activities,” he added.

He said the suspect was currently undergoing intensive interrogation to unravel the identities of his sponsors, collaborators and possible links to terrorist networks operating in the North-East.

The military spokesperson assured residents that troops of JTF NE Operation Hadin Kai remained on high alert and were sustaining aggressive operations to forestall attacks on civilians and key infrastructure.

“Troops continue to maintain aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations and sustained presence across the theatre to prevent attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure,” Uba stated.

He also called on members of the public to support security agencies by volunteering credible and timely intelligence to aid counter-terrorism efforts.

Reaffirming the military’s resolve, Lt Col Uba said the Armed Forces remained committed to safeguarding lives and property across the North-East, stressing that the morale and fighting efficiency of the troops remain high.

The arrest comes days after a suicide bombing at the Al-Adum Jumaat Mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, where five worshippers were killed and 35 others injured during evening prayers on December 24, heightening fears of renewed attacks in the state.