Army Arrests Alleged Coordinator of Suicide Bombings in North-East

The Nigerian Army says it has arrested Sheriff Umar, identified as a key coordinator of suicide bombings linked to recent attacks and attempted attacks in the North-East.

The arrest followed intelligence-led cordon-and-search operations carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025. During the operation, troops apprehended 14 suspects believed to be connected to suicide bombing activities. Further investigations helped security forces establish the structure, roles, and operational links within the terror network.

In a statement issued in Maiduguri, the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai Joint Task Force, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, said a suspected suicide bomber currently in custody, Ibrahim Muhammad, identified Sheriff Umar—also known as Yusuf—as the ringleader of the group.

According to the Army, consistent and corroborated statements showed that Umar was responsible for recruiting, preparing, and directing suicide bombers, as well as coordinating logistics and the supply of improvised explosive device (IED) components.

Investigators also linked Umar to the suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque on December 24, 2025, where his accomplice, identified as Adamu, detonated a suicide vest and died in the process. He was further accused of coordinating a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, including personally handing over IED components to the would-be bomber in Maiduguri.

The Army said investigations uncovered additional links within the network, including the involvement of Umar’s wife, Yagana Modu. His stepdaughter, Amina, reportedly confirmed seeing a suspected bomber within their residence at an earlier time. Military authorities said these findings exposed how terror facilitators use family and community ties to evade detection.

All suspects remain in custody and are undergoing further investigation aimed at dismantling the network, identifying other collaborators, and recovering remaining explosives and logistical assets.

Operation Hadin Kai noted that the arrests underscored the importance of cooperation between security agencies and local communities. The military urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, stressing that timely information from civilians plays a critical role in preventing attacks and restoring peace in the region.