Troops intercept suspected smugglers along bush route in Borno–Yobe

Five suspected smugglers have been intercepted by the troops of Operation HADIN KAI during an operation along a bush route linking Borno and Yobe states.

Zagazola Makama said in a post on X that the suspects were arrested in the early hours of April 19, at about 4:15 a.m., by troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade working together with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), according to security sources.

The operation took place along a remote path between Yunusari and Bukarti, extending towards the Kaula and Gamari axis, covering parts of Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State and Yunusari LGA of Yobe State.

Security sources told Makama that the troops intercepted three Golf vehicles moving along the bush route, leading to the arrest of the suspects.

“Security sources said the suspects were apprehended at about 4:15 a.m. on April 19 by troops of 27 Task Force Brigade in conjunction with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF),” Makama said.

Those apprehended were identified as Ari Chune, 28, and Umara Sani, 24, both from Borno State. Others include Tujjani Bogo, 32, Haruna Ibrahim, 17, and Lawan Ahmadu, 18, all from Yunusari Local Government Area of Yobe State.

Items recovered during the operation include 39 solar panels, 10 surface pumping machines, 470 pieces of 2×2 wood, and 64 plastic fibre roofing sheets. Other items found in their possession are four Android smartphones, one small Tecno phone, and the sum of ₦223,200.

The sources said the suspects and the recovered items are currently in the custody of the 27 Task Force Brigade for further investigation.

Troops intercept suspected smugglers along bush route in Borno–Yobe