Nigerian Army Intercepts Fertiliser Consignments Suspected of Terrorist Diversion

In a significant operation, Nigerian Army troops have seized 242 bags of NPK fertiliser believed to be diverted for the production of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by terrorists in Borno State. According to a credible source at Army Headquarters, the operation highlights the army’s vigilance in disrupting critical logistics supply chains to insurgents.

On Wednesday, troops of the 151 Task Force Battalion at Banki Junction in Bama Local Government Area intercepted a truck conveying 142 bags of NPK 20-10-10 fertiliser. Preliminary checks revealed that the consignment, approved for delivery to Mbalala ward in Chibok Local Government Area, was instead diverted through Bama en route to Askira-Uba, raising suspicions of terrorist involvement.

In a separate incident, troops of the 21 Military Intelligence Regiment, in collaboration with the 21 Provost Company, intercepted another truck loaded with 100 bags of NPK 20-10-10 fertiliser, as well as maize and rice, at Banki. The fertiliser was not reflected in the presented waybill, and the driver claimed ignorance of the consignment, stating that he was paid to deliver it in Banki town. The suspects and items are currently in custody for further investigation.

The diversion of fertiliser poses a significant threat to national security, as insurgents use it to fabricate IEDs. The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to blocking supply chains exploited by terrorists and their collaborators. The army has urged transporters, merchants, and locals to be vigilant and desist from aiding criminal networks.

In related developments, troops in the theatre discovered and detonated two IEDs planted along the Mafa–Ajiri road in Mafa Local Government Area, while repelling coordinated ISWAP/JAS attacks on military outposts in Bama on Thursday. Three civilians were injured in the attack and have been evacuated to a hospital in Banki for treatment.

The Nigerian Army, in synergy with sister services and security agencies, will sustain operations to protect law-abiding citizens and deny terrorists the ability to regroup or access critical resources. The army’s efforts to disrupt terrorist supply chains and protect civilians will continue to be a key focus of their operations in the region.