Troops of Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI have arrested eight suspects linked to the suicide bombing of the Gamboru Market mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, on December 24, 2025, that killed five persons and injured 32 others.

Media Information officer for the JTF North-East OPHK, Sani Uba, said two of the suspects, nabbed in Adamawa State on Monday, are facilitators of a suicide bombing network who supply materials to prepare the Improvised Explosive Device.

Mr Uba said the troops, “have recorded significant operational successes in Adamawa State, continuing intensified cordon-and-search operations targeting perpetrators and facilitators of the Gamboru Market Mosque suicide bombing.

“Following sustained surveillance on identified locations, OPHK troops executed a coordinated cordon-and-search operation in the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South Local Government Area in the early hours of 5 January 2026. Eight suspects were apprehended, including two principal suspects believed to be key facilitators within the suicide bombing network.”

Troops, during a search of the suspects’ residence, recovered cash, mobile phones, identification documents, ATM cards, jewellery, and other personal effects, which are currently undergoing forensic analysis to support ongoing investigations.

Mr Uba stated that, “During identification procedures, a suspect already in custody positively identified the two principal suspects as individuals who supplied materials used in preparing the Improvised Explosive Device (IED). Additional occupants of the residence were also linked to the network.

“All suspects remain in military custody, undergoing detailed interrogation to facilitate further intelligence recovery before being transferred for continued investigation.”

In another operation at Mayo Nguli, Maiha LGA in Adamawa State, on Sunday, suspects supplying smuggled 1,125 litres of petrol to suspected terrorists, fled upon sighting the troops who, thereafter, seized the large consignment they abandoned.

He said, “In a related development, OPHK troops intercepted a large consignment of suspected terrorists’ logistics in Mayo Nguli, Maiha Local Government Area of Adamawa State on 4 January 2026. The troops seized 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), with a total volume of approximately 1,125 litres, suspected to have been smuggled for terrorist use.

“The suppliers reportedly fled upon sighting the troops, abandoning the petroleum products, which are now in military custody pending further action. The operation was conducted without incident, and no casualties were recorded.”

He said the operations underscore OPHK’s resolve to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt logistics and supply chains, prevent future attacks, and bring all perpetrators and collaborators of terrorism to justice. 

Hr said the OPHK continues to urge members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies, because public support remains critical to sustaining security across the North East region.