Troops of operation Hadin Kai have recovered 56 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by suspected members of the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno.
In a statement on Friday, the Nigerian Army said the explosives were discovered on the Marte–Dikwa bridge during a clearance operation by troops in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
According to the statement, the IEDs were placed strategically to cause mass casualties and disrupt military and civilian movement along the route.
“So far, a total of 56 fully prepared IEDs have been safely recovered from the location. Controlled procedures are currently underway to render the remaining devices safe for complete recovery and disposal,” the statement reads.
“This successful operation has prevented a potentially catastrophic attack and reaffirms the vigilance, expertise, and commitment of Nigerian troops in safeguarding key infrastructure and civilian lives within the North East theatre.”
There has been an uptick of terrorists planting IEDs on bridges in recent times.
On June 1, one person was reportedly injured after suspected ISWAP terrorists detonated an IED at the Abari bridge along Wulgo road, connecting Gamboru and Wulgo town.
On April 16, the Mandafuma bridge, along the Biu-Damboa road in the state, was destroyed after suspected ISWAP fighters detonated an IED.
Similarly, suspected ISWAP members on April 18 blew up a bridge linking Ngirbuwa to Gonori in Gujba LGA of Yobe.
