Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recorded major operational gains in Adamawa State as intensified military actions continue against terrorist networks linked to the recent suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque. The latest successes, achieved through intelligence-driven cordon-and-search operations and interdiction of logistics supplies, underscore renewed efforts by the Nigerian military to dismantle terror cells, disrupt supply chains, and prevent further attacks in the North East.
Military sources confirmed that in the early hours of Monday, 5 January 2026, troops of Operation HADIN KAI carried out a coordinated cordon-and-search operation in the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South Local Government Area. The operation followed days of sustained surveillance on locations suspected to be harbouring perpetrators and facilitators of the deadly mosque bombing, which shocked residents and traders in the Gamboru Market area. Acting on actionable intelligence, troops moved swiftly into the community, sealing off the area and conducting systematic searches of identified residences.
During the operation, eight suspects were apprehended, including two individuals described as principal suspects believed to play critical roles within the suicide bombing network. Military officials said preliminary findings suggest that the suspects were not only connected to the planning of the attack but were also involved in facilitating the movement of materials and resources used to prepare the improvised explosive device deployed at the mosque. The arrests marked a significant breakthrough in efforts to unravel the operational structure behind the attack.
A detailed search of the suspects’ residence led to the recovery of several items considered vital to ongoing investigations. These included cash in various denominations, multiple mobile phones, identification documents, ATM cards, jewellery, and other personal effects. According to military authorities, the items are currently undergoing forensic examination to establish communication links, financial flows, and possible connections to other members of the terror network operating within and beyond Adamawa State. Analysts say such evidence often provides crucial insight into recruitment patterns, funding sources, and external support systems.
Further strengthening the case against the arrested suspects, a detainee already in military custody reportedly identified the two principal suspects during identification procedures. The detainee allegedly confirmed that the men were among those who supplied materials used in assembling the improvised explosive device. Military officials also disclosed that additional occupants of the residence were linked to the network, suggesting that the location served as more than a temporary hideout and may have functioned as a logistical or coordination hub for the group.
All eight suspects remain in military custody, where they are undergoing detailed interrogation aimed at extracting further intelligence. Authorities said the interrogation process is expected to yield information that could lead to additional arrests and help security forces neutralise remaining elements of the network. Upon completion of preliminary military investigations, the suspects are expected to be handed over to relevant authorities for continued investigation and prosecution in line with Nigerian law.
In a related development highlighting the breadth of the ongoing operations, Operation HADIN KAI troops intercepted a large consignment of suspected terrorist logistics in Mayo Nguli, Maiha Local Government Area of Adamawa State, on Sunday, 4 January 2026. Acting on intelligence about the movement of supplies intended for insurgents, troops set up surveillance and interception points along suspected routes. The operation resulted in the seizure of 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit, estimated at approximately 1,125 litres.
Military sources said the petroleum products were believed to have been smuggled for use by terrorists, potentially to fuel motorcycles, vehicles, and power equipment used during attacks or for sustaining camps in remote areas. Upon sighting the troops, the suspected suppliers reportedly fled the scene, abandoning the fuel. No casualties were recorded during the operation, and the seized products have been taken into military custody pending further action. Such interdictions, analysts note, are critical to degrading the operational mobility of terrorist groups.
Security experts say the twin operations reflect a strategic shift towards not only pursuing attackers after incidents occur but also proactively targeting the enablers, financiers, and suppliers who sustain terror activities. By choking off access to fuel, cash, and safe locations, the military aims to weaken networks that rely heavily on logistics and local support to operate effectively. The Adamawa operations, they argue, demonstrate the importance of intelligence-led actions in counterterrorism efforts.
Residents of affected communities in Mubi South and Maiha LGAs have expressed cautious relief following the operations. Many described years of living under the shadow of insurgency, where attacks on markets, places of worship, and transport routes have disrupted daily life and eroded economic activity. While welcoming the arrests and seizures, some community members urged authorities to maintain a sustained security presence to prevent reprisals and reassure civilians who fear being caught between terrorists and counterterrorism operations.
Operation HADIN KAI headquarters reiterated its unwavering resolve to dismantle terrorist networks across the North East. Military officials stressed that the ongoing operations are part of a broader campaign to restore lasting peace, protect civilian populations, and ensure that all perpetrators and collaborators of terrorism are brought to justice. They emphasized that successes recorded so far were made possible through a combination of military professionalism, intelligence gathering, and cooperation from local communities.
The military also renewed its appeal to members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies. According to officials, community support remains a critical pillar of counterinsurgency operations, as residents are often the first to notice suspicious movements or activities. Authorities assured the public that information shared in confidence would be handled discreetly and used strictly for security purposes.
As investigations continue and further operations are expected, the recent breakthroughs in Adamawa State signal a renewed momentum in the fight against terrorism in the North East. While challenges remain, the arrests of key suspects and the disruption of logistics supplies highlight ongoing efforts to degrade terror networks and prevent future attacks, offering a measure of hope to communities long affected by violence and instability.
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