Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have uncovered a large cache of high-calibre ammunition in the Bulumkutu Railway general area of Maiduguri, Borno State, in a development that further underscores the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-driven security operations across the North-East.
The recovery followed sustained troop presence and follow-up actions after a recent cordon-and-search operation based on actionable intelligence aimed at denying criminal and terrorist elements freedom of action, particularly in the aftermath of multiple suicide bombers neutralised or apprehended within the past week.
According to the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, troops received a distress call at about 3:00 p.m. on January 2, 2026, reporting the discovery of suspicious metallic objects concealed inside a drainage channel in the Bulumkutu Railway area.
He said troops, in collaboration with Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, immediately mobilised to the location to secure the area and assess the threat.
“A thorough search led to the recovery of 1,270 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition warheads, including some live 12.7mm rounds, as well as power banks concealed within the drainage channel,” he stated.
Preliminary safety measures were promptly taken to secure the site, while efforts are ongoing to drain the channel to ascertain if additional dangerous items are present. Troops, working with the Police and other security agencies, continue to dominate the general area to ensure the safety of residents, protect critical infrastructure and prevent any attempt by criminal or terrorist elements to retrieve the recovered items.
No casualties or untoward incidents were recorded during the operation. The general security situation in the area remains calm, with troops maintaining heightened vigilance in view of the prevailing security threats.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba noted that the successful recovery highlights the importance of intelligence-led operations, sustained military pressure and community cooperation in preventing potential security threats. He also emphasised the critical role of timely information from members of the public in enhancing collective security.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious items or movements to security agencies, stressing that collective responsibility remains vital to sustaining peace and security in the North-East.
