The Nigerian Army has arrested Shariff Umar, also known as Yusuf, a suspected key coordinator of a suicide bombing network operating in the North-East, in a major blow to terror activities in the region.
The arrest was carried out by troops of Operation Hadin Kai during intelligence-led operations in Maiduguri, Borno State, and surrounding areas. Military authorities confirmed that Umar orchestrated recruitment, training, and deployment of suicide bombers across Borno and Yobe States, coordinating logistics, explosives, and operational movements.
Umar is allegedly linked to several recent attacks, including the Christmas Eve bombing at Gamboru Market Mosque, which claimed multiple lives, and a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, Yobe State.
The breakthrough followed the detention of 14 terror suspects during cordon-and-search operations, one of whom provided intelligence that identified Umar as the ringleader. Investigations also uncovered the involvement of some family members, who allegedly assisted the network or provided crucial information about its operations.
All suspects remain in custody as security agencies continue a multi-layered investigation to dismantle the network completely, track remaining collaborators, and recover hidden explosives.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace in the North-East and urged communities to support security forces by reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing that community cooperation is key to defeating terrorism in the region. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.