The Nigerian Army has dealt a major blow to terrorists in the Northeast, intercepting 242 bags of fertiliser believed to be headed for bomb-making in Borno State.
Troops of 151 Task Force Battalion struck first on Wednesday at Banki Junction, Bama LGA, stopping a truck loaded with 142 bags of NPK fertiliser. The consignment, approved for delivery to Mbalala in Chibok, was instead diverted through Bama en route Askira-Uba — a suspicious route linked to insurgents.
Hours later, operatives of 21 Military Intelligence Regiment, backed by 21 Provost Company, seized another truck in Banki. Hidden inside: 100 more bags of NPK, plus 79 bags of maize and 21 bags of rice. The fertiliser never appeared on the waybill, and the driver confessed he was only paid to deliver the cargo. Both suspects and consignments are now under investigation.
Military insiders say the bust is a game-changer. Fertiliser diversion has long been a key supply line for Boko Haram and ISWAP bomb factories. “Cutting off these chains is cutting off their lifeline,” one source told NAN.
The operation didn’t stop there. Troops also discovered and destroyed two IEDs planted along the Mafa–Ajiri road, and repelled coordinated ISWAP/JAS attacks on military posts in Bama. Three civilians were injured and rushed to hospital in Banki.
Army authorities have vowed to keep the heat on. “We will block every resource, every supply chain, and deny terrorists the chance to regroup,” a top officer declared, warning transporters and traders against collusion with insurgents.
With Thursday’s success, the message is clear: the Army is tightening the noose, and terrorists are running out of options.
