Troops Halt Terror Attack on Power Installation in Yobe, Recover 8 IEDs

In a significant development in the ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Yobe State, troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully thwarted an attempt by ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists to destroy high-tension electric pylons near Kasesa Village on the outskirts of Damaturu town.

According to a statement released by the Army on Sunday, the troops, in collaboration with local hunters, acting on credible intelligence, laid an ambush for the terrorists and intercepted them while en route to the pylons in a suspicious vehicle. A fierce firefight ensued, as the troops engaged the terrorists, forcing them to abandon their vehicle and flee with gunshot wounds.

The Army's swift and decisive action prevented a potential catastrophe and safeguarded the electricity infrastructure in the region. The successful operation is a clear pointer to the dedication and vigilance of the security forces in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of local communities in Yobe State.

The incident is the latest in a series of attacks on electricity infrastructure in the region. Recently, there has been an uptick in attacks on high-tension electric pylons, causing blackouts in affected areas. On December 28, 2023, three electricity towers, T193, T194, and T195, were destroyed by terrorists using improvised explosive devices in Borno State. Similarly, in June 2024, two towers, T193 and T194, along the 330 kilovolts single circuit transmission line were destroyed by vandals in Borno State.

The Federal Government has expressed concern over the rising attacks on power infrastructure and has announced plans to establish "power rangers" to protect power infrastructure across the country. The proposed "power rangers" will be a specialized security unit tasked with the responsibility of safeguarding power infrastructure, including transmission lines, substations, and power plants.

The Army's statement revealed that upon searching the vehicle abandoned by the terrorists, the troops discovered eight improvised explosive devices (IEDs) with detonating cords, along with a trade test card belonging to one Emmanuel Adamu. The recovery of the IEDs and the trade test card is a significant breakthrough in the ongoing counter-terrorism operations, as it provides valuable intelligence on the terrorists' plans and tactics.

The collaboration between the troops and local hunters in foiling the attack is a testament to the effectiveness of community-led security initiatives. The hunters, who have been working closely with the security forces, provided critical intelligence that led to the successful ambush and interception of the terrorists.

The Army's statement praised the hunters for their bravery and commitment to the security of their communities, stating that "the successful operation is a clear pointer to the dedication and vigilance of the security forces and local communities in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of local communities in Yoe State."

The foiled attack on the power installation in Yobe State is a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists to the security and stability of the region. The group, which has been responsible for numerous attacks on civilians, military personnel, and infrastructure, continues to pose a significant challenge to the security forces and local communities.

The Nigerian Army has assured the public that it will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all citizens and has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the security forces.

In conclusion, the foiled attack on the power installation in Yobe State is a significant achievement for the security forces and a testament to the effectiveness of community-led security initiatives. The recovery of the IEDs and the trade test card provides valuable intelligence on the terrorists' plans and tactics and will aid in the ongoing counter-terrorism operations. The Nigerian Army's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens is unwavering, and the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the security forces.