Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have recovered 56 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) allegedly planted by suspected terrorists on the strategic Marte–Dikwa Bridge in Borno State, averting what could have been a deadly ambush.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the development via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, revealing that the explosives were discovered during a clearance operation by soldiers of the 24 Brigade based in Dikwa.
According to Makama, the IEDs were believed to have been planted by suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in a calculated attempt to inflict mass casualties and disrupt both military and civilian movement along the vital route.
“The troops, acting on credible intelligence, uncovered the devices before detonation. A total of 56 prepared IEDs were recovered at the scene,” the post stated.
Following the discovery, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was immediately deployed to safely neutralize the threat. Images from the operation showed explosives spread across critical parts of the bridge, which links major towns in northern Borno.
Military sources confirmed that surveillance and clearance operations are ongoing in the area to prevent further threats and ensure safety for travelers and security personnel operating in the region.
