Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have intensified their efforts against terrorist elements in Borno State, neutralising seven ISWAP fighters, dismantling multiple insurgent camps in Konduga, and uncovering a fuel smuggling syndicate supplying Boko Haram terrorists in Maiduguri, PRNigeria reports.
According to intelligence sources who spoke to Zagazola, the coordinated operations on May 5 aimed to disrupt terrorist networks, logistics routes, and collaborators aiding insurgents in the northeast.
In Konduga Local Government Area, troops of the 7 Division Garrison, supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and hybrid forces, launched a massive clearance operation across Ajilari Cross, Bimi, Duari, Caterpillar Jeria, Gongolori, Isari, and Kartari villages—suspected terrorist enclaves.
Contact was made with terrorists in Sumun village, leading to a fierce gun duel in which seven ISWAP members were neutralised. Recovered items from the scene included three AK-47 rifles, three magazines, two hand grenades, five cutlasses, and a bow and arrow. No further enemy contact was reported after the engagement.
Meanwhile, in Baga town of Kukawa Local Government Area, troops of Sector 3 Multi National Joint Task Force and Operation Hadin Kai arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator believed to be a logistics supplier. Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone, ₦335,000, and other materials. The suspect is in custody for further investigation.
In a separate operation, troops raided Hadiza and Sadiq Filling Station in Maiduguri, where over 500 jerrycans were being filled with fuel allegedly destined for Boko Haram fighters in the Gwoza axis and Cameroon border areas.
The raid, following sustained intelligence surveillance, revealed that the fuel was loaded into vehicles with modified tanks before being transferred to jerrycans for onward smuggling to insurgent territories. Several suspects were arrested during the operation and reportedly confessed that the fuel was heading towards Pulka and other terrorist strongholds controlled by the Ali Ngulde faction. However, they claimed ignorance of the final recipients.
Security officials condemned the act as treasonous, accusing the station operators of economic sabotage and complicity in terrorism. “These are not legitimate businessmen. They are saboteurs who are enabling the killing of innocent Nigerians and destruction of national assets,” said a senior military source.
The military has pledged to intensify surveillance on fuel distribution chains and ensure all collaborators and accomplices face the full weight of the law as the fight against terrorism enters a more aggressive phase.
