Troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) operating under Sector 3 in Monguno, have intercepted a suspected terrorist courier conveying suspected Improvised Explosive Device- making materials in Borno state, northeast Nigeria.
Chief Military Information Officer, HQ MNJTF N’djamena, Chad, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, disclosed this on Friday, saying the suspect was arrested on Thursday in a significant counter-terrorism operation by the MNJTF in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), at the entrance to Gubio Local Government Area of the state.
The arrested suspect, identified as Murktar Alhaji Chari (28), confessed to transporting the materials to Damasak town in Mobbar Local Government Area for a planned attack on MNJTF troops.
The intercepted materials included four empty 12kg cylinders, one empty 6kg cylinder, two carburettor gas canisters, two pressure regulators and a hose.
According to Osoba, intelligence reports indicated that this material was intended for a group of terrorists planning a retaliatory attack following recent losses, including the elimination of several terrorist group members and the seizure of a significant cache of weapons.
“The timely interception of this courier and the recovery of these materials have effectively disrupted a potential terrorist attack and dealt a significant blow to the operational capabilities of the terrorist group. The suspect is currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations”, Osoba stated.
The Force Commander MNJTF, Major General Ibrahim Ali, has commended the troops and CJTF for their vigilance and professionalism, while reiterating MNJTF’s resolve to combat terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of the region.
