Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have intercepted and recovered 56 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by suspected ISWAP terrorists on the strategic Marte–Dikwa bridge in Borno State, averting what could have been a major attack.
Sources told security analyst, Zagazola Makama on Friday that the explosives were discovered during a clearance operation by troops of 24 Brigade, Dikwa, Borno state.
According to the source, the IEDs were strategically placed on the bridge by terrorists with the intention of causing mass casualties and disrupting military and civilian movement along the route.
“The troops, acting on credible intelligence, uncovered the devices before detonation. A total of 56 prepared IEDs were recovered at the scene,” the source said.
He added that an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team were immediately deployed to the location to assist in rendering the devices safe.
Images from the operation show several recovered explosive devices laid across key sections of the bridge, which links two major towns in northern Borno.
The sources said the quick intervention by the troops forestalled what could have been a catastrophic terrorist attack, likely targeting both security forces and humanitarian operations in the region.
The area remains under close surveillance, while clearance and recovery operations are still ongoing.
