Troops operating in Borno State have apprehended a 15-year-old suspect, identified as Tijjani, in connection with recent attacks that claimed the lives of military personnel, including a senior officer, and civilians in parts of the state.
Security sources disclosed that the teenager was arrested on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in Ngamdu, a community along the Maiduguri-Damaturu highway, during ongoing clearance operations targeting insurgent elements. The operations were launched following coordinated assaults on Benisheik and Ngamdu, areas that have remained vulnerable to repeated attacks by extremist groups.
According to the sources, the suspect was taken into custody after troops intensified surveillance and intelligence-driven raids across the affected axis. During preliminary interrogation, Tijjani reportedly confessed to being part of a group involved in the Thursday attacks on the two communities. The assault had resulted in multiple casualties and heightened concerns about security in the region.
The teenager allegedly revealed that he had been moving between several locations within northern Borno, an area heavily impacted by insurgency activities. He claimed that he became separated from other members of his group shortly before his arrest, a development that may have contributed to his capture by advancing troops.
While the military has yet to issue an official statement on the arrest, sources indicated that the suspect is currently in custody and assisting security agencies with ongoing investigations. Authorities are expected to use information obtained from him to track down other members of the group and prevent further attacks.
Benisheik and Ngamdu have experienced recurring violence linked to insurgent factions operating in the North-East, particularly those associated with Boko Haram and its splinter groups. The latest arrest is seen as part of broader efforts by the military to dismantle these networks and restore stability to affected communities.
Security operations are ongoing, with troops maintaining a strong presence in the area to deter further attacks and reassure residents of their safety.
