Troops arrest two suspected Boko Haram, ISWAP logistics suppliers, recover motorcycle parts in Borno
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation HADIN KAI, in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have arrested two suspected logistics suppliers to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Mobbar Local Government Area of Borno State.
The suspects were arrested on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026, following credible human intelligence on the movement of logistics items believed to be destined for terrorist elements operating in the Yunusari-Mobbar axis.
According to a military intelligence source, troops of 159 Battalion, supported by the CJTF, swiftly mobilised a fighting patrol to the Gumsa area, where they intercepted the suspected logistics consignment and arrested two civilians.
The suspects were identified as Mala Mustapha, 50, and Massa Aliyu, 40, both natives of Asaye village in Damasak, Mobbar LGA.
Preliminary investigation indicated that the suspects allegedly purchased motorcycle spare parts for terrorist elements believed to be hibernating between Yunusari and Mobbar general areas.
The operation led to the recovery of a large quantity of motorcycle components, including 50 motorcycle tyres, 10 crankshafts, 50 oil seals, 31 traffic indicators, 49 acceleration cables and 46 clutch cables.
Other items recovered included 20 spindles, 10 packs of bearings, 20 brake rods, 75 gaskets, 20 motorcycle brake shoes, 80 piston kits, 146 chains and sprockets, 11 speedometers and 15 clutch plates.
The troops also recovered piston rings, rocker arms, CDI units, shock rubbers, coils, Danpa rubbers, rectifiers, fuel taps, fuel filters, PAG valves, hand pumps and ignition keys, among other motorcycle spare parts.
Also recovered were 145 pairs of footwear, which investigators are examining as part of the suspected logistics consignment.
The security forces further recovered two Tecno Android phones, one small Tecno phone and N3,200 in cash from the suspects.
The suspects and the recovered items have been handed over to 27 Military Intelligence Regiment (27 MIR) for further investigation and appropriate action.
The latest operation underscores the increasing focus by troops on disrupting the logistics networks that sustain terrorist groups in the North-East.
By intercepting supplies before they reach terrorist hideouts, security forces are seeking to restrict the mobility and operational capacity of the insurgents operating across the border communities and remote areas of Borno.
Military sources said troops remain on alert and are sustaining intelligence-led operations against terrorist elements and their collaborators across the theatre.
The security situation in the area remains fluid, while the morale and fighting efficiency of the troops remain high, according to the military.
