Eid Celebrations: Boko Haram, ISWAP planning suicide bombing attacks for sallah, military warns

The headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI, has assured residents of the North-East of adequate security ahead of the Eid-El Kabir celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, amid a warning of potential terrorist attacks.

The theatre command, in a security advisory issued on Monday, said troops had been strategically deployed across vulnerable locations within the theatre to ensure peaceful celebrations.

The command, while extending Eid felicitations to Muslim faithful, disclosed that intelligence reports indicated possible attempts by remnants of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province terrorists to exploit the festive period to attack civilian targets.

“Terrorists may attempt to deploy suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, particularly in densely populated areas.

”The  OPHK assures residents that the threats had been anticipated and necessary preventive measures put in place.

“Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets have been fully activated, patrols intensified, while security forces are operating closely with sister agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and community vigilance groups,” the military said.

The command advised residents to remain vigilant throughout the festive period and avoid unnecessary exposure to security risks.

It urged worshippers to conduct Eid prayers and celebrations close to home and, where possible, avoid large gatherings.

The command also advised members of the public to be watchful in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banks and prayer grounds, while promptly reporting suspicious persons, objects or movements to security agencies.

Residents were further urged to cooperate with security personnel during patrols and screening exercises, and to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause panic.

Operation HADIN KAI also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by sharing credible information in a timely manner.

The command reiterated its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action and ensuring that residents celebrate Eid el-Fitr in peace and safety across the North-East region.

(NAN)