Troops arrest 18 terrorist logistics suppliers in Borno

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Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have apprehended 18 suspected logistics suppliers allegedly en route to Gubio, with plans to proceed to the Gudumbali axis, a known Boko Haram terrorists (BHTs) enclave.

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This is contained in a daily operational report made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday.

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The military said the suspects were intercepted while travelling towards the location to deliver the goods to the terrorists.

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According to the report, preliminary investigation revealed that all 18 suspects confessed to engaging in the supply of goods to the terrorist group.

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“They admitted that they routinely purchase and convey items to the terrorists.

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“Their justification was lack of employment, which points to a deeper socio-economic challenge in Maiduguri and its environs,” the army said.

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The development, according to the report, validates recent remarks by the Chief of Defence Staff on the link between economic hardship and the sustenance of insurgency logistics networks.

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“The arrest highlights the critical role of civilian collaborators in sustaining terrorist operations, particularly in remote areas such as Gubio and Gudumbali,” it added.

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The army called for a comprehensive approach combining military operations with economic empowerment and job creation to address the root causes of insurgency in the region.

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(NAN)

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