The Nigerian military has intensified its ongoing counter-insurgency campaign in Borno State, destroying two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and carrying out large-scale clearance operations across several communities as part of efforts to weaken Boko Haram and ISWAP activities during the rainy season.
The latest operation forms part of Operation DESERT SANITY V, a major military offensive under Operation HADIN KAI designed to deny terrorists freedom of movement, secure strategic supply routes, and prevent the re-establishment of insurgent camps.
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the coordinated operation was conducted on Monday, July 21, by troops of Sector 2 working alongside local volunteer forces.
Troops Neutralise Roadside Bomb Threat Along Damboa Supply Route
During one of the operations, troops from the 19 Battalion (Mechanised) and 25 Brigade Garrison, supported by volunteer fighters, carried out an extensive clearance mission along the Damboa–Bulabulin–Kumala Main Supply Route and nearby communities.
The joint force reportedly consisted of 134 military personnel backed by 100 volunteer fighters, using Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, gun trucks, troop carriers, motorcycles, and other operational vehicles.
While combing through the Kumala and Bulabulin areas, soldiers discovered two fully prepared improvised explosive devices allegedly planted by suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters along the road.
Military explosives experts successfully detonated both devices at the scene, preventing what could have become a deadly attack on security personnel and civilians travelling through the corridor.
The operation also disrupted suspected terrorist activities after troops reportedly sighted a suspected logistics supplier, who escaped into nearby bushes upon noticing the advancing military convoy.
Military Clears Multiple Borno Communities in Second Operation
In a separate but simultaneous operation, troops from the 162 Amphibious Battalion, 231 Battalion, and 331 Artillery Regiment, supported by volunteer fighters, carried out clearance patrols across several communities.
Areas covered during the operation included:
- Diwa
- Liya
- Bam
- Ngilu
- Sura
- Pela
- Pela Sanga
The combined force, comprising 32 soldiers, MRAP vehicles, and dozens of motorcycles, conducted detailed searches throughout the affected communities and surrounding forests.
No contact was made with insurgents during the patrols, while security teams also reported that no terrorist camps or operational bases were discovered in the areas searched.
Operation DESERT SANITY V Targets Terrorist Strongholds
Military sources said the latest operations are part of the broader Operation DESERT SANITY V, which continues to focus on maintaining military dominance across the North-East.
The campaign aims to:
- Secure major military and civilian supply routes.
- Detect and safely remove explosive threats.
- Prevent Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters from rebuilding camps.
- Maintain pressure on insurgent groups throughout the wet season.
Security operations have been intensified in recent weeks as the military seeks to limit terrorist movements and strengthen security across vulnerable communities in Borno State.
The latest clearance missions highlight ongoing efforts by Nigerian troops and supporting volunteer forces to disrupt insurgent activities, improve road safety, and sustain pressure on terrorist groups operating within the Lake Chad region.
