In a decisive counter-terror operation, the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) troops in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) have successfully intercepted a suspected terrorist courier, averting a potentially devastating bomb attack in Borno State. The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Murktar Alhaji Chari, was arrested at the Gubio Local Government Area (LGA) entrance while transporting materials used in constructing Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Intercepting Danger
The suspect’s arrest occurred on Thursday, January 2, 2025, as part of heightened security measures in the region. According to a statement issued on Friday by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Chief Military Information Officer at MNJTF Headquarters in N’Djamena, Chad, the operation marked a critical success in the ongoing fight against terrorism in northeastern Nigeria.
“The suspect admitted during interrogation that the materials were en route to Damasak town in Mobbar Local Government Area. Intelligence indicates they were intended for an imminent attack on MNJTF troops stationed in the region,” Osoba disclosed.
The items recovered during the operation included four empty 12kg cylinders, one empty 6kg cylinder, two carburetor gas canisters, two pressure regulators, and a hose. These materials, though seemingly innocuous, were believed to be key components for crafting deadly explosive devices.
Foiling a Retaliatory Attack
This interception followed recent military successes against terrorist elements in the region, including the elimination of several insurgents and the seizure of a significant weapons cache. Security analysts have suggested that the foiled attack was likely a retaliatory mission by the insurgents, whose operational capacity has been severely degraded by MNJTF efforts.
Lieutenant Colonel Osoba highlighted the broader implications of the operation. “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,” he said.
Local Vigilance Pays Off
The success of the operation was credited to the collaboration between MNJTF troops and members of the CJTF, who have played a critical role in intelligence gathering and area monitoring. The CJTF, composed of local volunteers, has been instrumental in combating terrorism by leveraging their deep understanding of the terrain and local dynamics.
Major General Ibrahim Ali, the Force Commander of MNJTF, commended the troops and CJTF for their vigilance and professionalism. He reiterated the MNJTF’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of communities across the region. “This operation underscores our resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms and maintain security for the people of this region,” Ali emphasized.
A Persistent Threat
Despite significant military gains, Borno State remains a hotspot for insurgent activities, with terrorist groups often targeting security installations and civilian populations. Analysts have noted that the interception of IED materials is a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by these groups.
Dr. Yusuf Mohammed, a security expert, stated, “While the MNJTF has made commendable progress in curbing terrorism, incidents like this highlight the need for sustained intelligence-driven operations and regional collaboration.”
The MNJTF, comprising troops from Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger, was established to address cross-border terrorism and insurgency. It has played a pivotal role in degrading the capabilities of Boko Haram and other extremist factions in the Lake Chad Basin.
Terrorism’s Human Toll
The use of IEDs has been a devastating tactic employed by terrorist groups in Nigeria, resulting in mass casualties and destruction. According to a 2024 report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over 2,000 civilians have been killed or maimed by IED attacks in northeastern Nigeria over the past five years.
Local residents expressed relief following the latest interception, but some remain wary of the ongoing threat. “We are grateful to the troops for their bravery, but we still live in fear. More needs to be done to completely eradicate these terrorists,” said Musa Gubio, a community leader in Gubio LGA.
Strengthening Regional Efforts
The MNJTF has reiterated its call for greater international support to combat terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin. Officials have urged for enhanced funding, advanced equipment, and intelligence-sharing to bolster the fight against insurgency.
As the investigation continues, security agencies have vowed to pursue all leads to dismantle the network behind the foiled attack. “We are following every piece of intelligence to ensure no stone is left unturned,” assured Lieutenant Colonel Osoba.
A Message of Hope
While the threat of terrorism looms large, the success of this operation has sent a strong message to insurgent groups. The MNJTF’s vigilance, combined with local collaboration, underscores a collective determination to protect lives and restore peace to Borno and beyond.
As Major General Ali aptly put it, “Terrorists may plan their attacks, but with our troops and local allies on high alert, their plans will continue to fail.”
