Troops of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation HADIN KAI, have sustained intensified security operations across the region, ensuring peaceful Eid El Adha celebrations while maintaining pressure on terrorists and criminal elements operating within the theatre.

Under the ongoing Operation Desert Sanity, troops deployed to several communities across the North-East provided tight security during Eid prayers, reinforcing growing public confidence in the military’s efforts to restore stability in previously volatile areas.

In Ngoshe community, soldiers joined local vigilantes and residents at the Central Mosque for the Eid prayers in what security officials described as a strong sign of returning normalcy. The community, once heavily threatened by insurgent attacks, witnessed a peaceful celebration under military protection.

Prayers were offered for the Armed Forces, peace in the North-East and national unity, as authorities continue efforts to encourage displaced residents to safely return to their communities.

Similarly, troops attached to the Headquarters 26 Task Force Brigade maintained security presence around major prayer grounds and mosques in Gwoza town, allowing worshippers to observe the religious celebration without disruption.

Military authorities also delivered goodwill messages from senior commanders to troops on the frontlines, commending their sacrifices and encouraging them to sustain operational momentum against insurgent groups.

Meanwhile, troops responding to intelligence reports foiled a robbery operation in Gar Gwigwi village in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, leading to the arrest of three suspected criminals identified as Aliyu Mamadu, Umar Mohammed and Adamu Aliyu.

The suspects were reportedly apprehended after victims positively identified them as members of a gang terrorising residents in the area.

Security operatives recovered several items during the operation, including mobile phones, wristwatches, charms, cash, a dagger and a dane gun.

Investigations later revealed that the firearm belonged to a member of the Miyetti Allah group, Mallam Manu Ibrahim, who had allegedly been attacked and robbed a day earlier. The weapon has since been returned to its owner.

In another operation, troops working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force arrested a 33-year-old suspected terrorist collaborator, identified as Alhaji Gambo, during a security screening at the entrance of Monguno town.

According to military sources, the suspect was intercepted while attempting to enter the town with vehicle spare parts and other personal belongings considered suspicious by security personnel.

All suspects arrested during the various operations are currently in military custody as investigations continue.

Military authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down other members of criminal and terrorist networks operating within the North-East theatre.

The military described the overall security situation in the region as relatively calm but still unpredictable, stressing that troops remain on high alert to prevent fresh attacks and sustain ongoing gains against insurgent groups.

Operation HADIN KAI also reaffirmed its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of movement, protecting civilians and maintaining pressure on armed groups threatening peace and stability across the North-East.