Troops of the Nigerian Army have recovered a command-wire improvised explosive device (IED) concealed along the Maiduguri–Damasak road in Borno State, thwarting what could have been another terrorist attack in the North-East.
The explosive device was discovered by troops of the 149 Battalion during a security operation at Kanguri village in Guzamala Local Government Area of the state.
According to security sources, the troops made the discovery at about 3:00 p.m. on Thursday while escorting a team from the Mine Risk Group (MRG), Maiduguri.
The MRG team was on a mission to recover two trucks that were damaged in an earlier improvised explosive device attack allegedly carried out by Boko Haram terrorists on July 4.
The command-wire IED was reportedly buried beneath the road at Kanguri village, a route frequently used by security personnel and motorists.
Security sources said the timely discovery of the explosive device prevented what could have resulted in casualties and damage to vehicles using the road.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by troops to secure major routes across Borno State and deny terrorists the opportunity to carry out attacks using improvised explosive devices.
The discovery also highlights the continued threat posed by insurgents, who have increasingly relied on roadside explosives to target security forces and civilians.
Military authorities have continued to intensify route clearance operations and explosive ordnance disposal activities to ensure the safety of road users in conflict-affected communities.
Further details on the recovery operation were not immediately available.
Source: Zagazola Makama.
