Troops neutralise IED, secure Borno highway for commuters

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have discovered and safely detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Damboa–Komala–Maiduguri road in Borno State while escorting civilian vehicles.

Security sources said the operation was carried out at about 8:40 a.m. on Friday by personnel of the 25 Brigade Garrison and 19 Battalion (Mechanised), working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

The troops were conducting a fighting patrol along the main supply route from Damboa to Maiduguri, a key corridor often targeted by insurgents.

During the mission, they escorted 32 civilian vehicles from Damboa to Komala, where the convoy continued onward to Maiduguri.

An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team later обнаружed an IED suspected to have been planted by terrorists and safely detonated it on the spot, preventing potential harm to road users.

After clearing the route, the troops continued operations and successfully escorted 60 vehicles back to Damboa without incident.

Military sources said the exercise is part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai to secure major roads, protect commuters and disrupt terrorist activities in the North-East.

They added that sustained patrols and clearance operations have improved safety on the route and boosted confidence among travellers in the area.