Troops recover N37m, phones at checkpoint in Borno

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have recovered about ₦37 million and several mobile phones during a routine checkpoint search in Borno State, security officials confirmed on Monday.

The Theatre Command’s spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said the cash was discovered at the Forward Operating Base Chabbal checkpoint after soldiers stopped a vehicle carrying five passengers.

A search of the vehicle uncovered bags containing the money and multiple handsets, a development he said has raised concerns about possible links to channels that fund insurgent activities.

He noted that investigations were underway. The interception came shortly after troops recorded encounters around the Pulka and Madara–Girau axis, where movements linked to suspected ISWAP fighters were disrupted.

Security personnel have since increased surveillance around known crossing points described as logistics corridors for armed groups.

Military accounts also indicated that troops of Sector 1, working with vigilante groups, mounted a night ambush on 16 February along a route reportedly used by insurgents transiting from the Cameroon border area.

The suspects came under fire and fled, leaving behind supplies believed to be intended for onward delivery.

Troops have continued sustained patrols across key transit routes as part of efforts to restrict the movement and support structures of insurgent groups operating in parts of the North-East.