Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have arrested eight suspects, including two alleged masterminds, in connection with the recent Gamboru Market Mosque suicide bombing.
The breakthrough occurred during an intensified cordon-and-search operation in the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South Local Government Area, Adamawa State, in the early hours of Monday, January 5, 2026.
According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East), the raid targeted individuals believed to be facilitators of the bombing network.
During the operation, a suspect already in military custody positively identified two of the apprehended men as the primary suppliers of materials used to construct the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) used in the Gamboru attack.
The search of the suspects’ residence yielded significant quantities of cash, jewellery, mobile phones, ATM cards, and personal identification documents. Military officials confirmed that these items are currently undergoing forensic analysis to uncover further links to terrorist cells in the region. All eight suspects remain in military custody for detailed interrogation.
In a separate but related development on Sunday, January 4, troops intercepted a major logistics shipment intended for terrorists in Mayo Nguli, Maiha Local Government Area.
Acting on intelligence, OPHK forces seized 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), totalling approximately 1,125 liters. The suspected suppliers abandoned the fuel and fled into the bush upon sighting the military patrol, and no casualties were reported during the encounter.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba emphasised that these successful operations are part of a broader strategy to dismantle the logistics and supply chains that sustain insurgent activities in the North East.
He stated that these actions underscore the unwavering resolve of the OPHK to dismantle terrorist networks and bring all collaborators to justice. He further urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies to help maintain the current momentum.
