The Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has identified Shariff Umar, also known as “Yusuf,” as the principal coordinator of a suicide bombing network responsible for recent attacks and attempted attacks in the North East.
According to the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the breakthrough followed intelligence-led cordon-and-search operations conducted in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025. During the operation, 14 suspects linked to suicide bombing activities were arrested.
Subsequent investigations and identification processes revealed the structure, roles and operational linkages of the terror cell. A suspected suicide bomber currently in custody, Ibrahim Muhammad, reportedly identified Shariff Umar as the ringleader and coordinator of the network. Investigators established that Umar was responsible for recruiting, preparing, directing and dispatching suicide bombers, as well as coordinating logistics and the supply of Improvised Explosive Device (IED) components.
Further findings indicated that Shariff Umar directly coordinated the suicide bombing attack at the Gamboru Market Mosque on December 24, 2025, during which his accomplice, Adamu, detonated a suicide vest and died in the process. He was also linked to the foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, having allegedly handed over IED components to the would-be bomber in Maiduguri.
Investigators also uncovered additional links within the network, including the involvement of Umar’s wife, Yagana Modu. His stepdaughter, Amina, reportedly confirmed having previously seen the suspected bomber within their residence, further exposing the domestic and community-based concealment methods used by terrorist facilitators.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba said all suspects remain in custody and are undergoing intensive, multi-layered investigations aimed at dismantling the entire network, identifying additional collaborators and recovering any remaining explosives or logistical assets.
He emphasised that the success of the operation highlights the importance of collaboration between security forces and the civilian population, noting that terrorist networks often survive by hiding within communities and exploiting silence or fear.
The military urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons, movements or activities to security agencies, stressing that cooperation and trust between OPHK troops and local communities are vital to eradicating terrorism and restoring lasting peace in the region.
