Troops Intercept Over 400 Starlink Devices Allegedly Used By Boko Haram, ISWAP

Troops of Sector 2 under Operation Hadin Kai have intercepted more than 400 Starlink communication devices allegedly being used by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province fighters to coordinate criminal activities across the North-east.

The disclosure was made by Sector Commander Brigadier General Beyidi Martins while briefing defence correspondents in Damaturu on Tuesday.

According to Martins, the communication equipment was recovered during ongoing intelligence-led and strangulation operations targeting terrorist logistics and communication networks in the region.

He explained that the seized Starlink terminals were intercepted during military operations carried out across the Sambisa Forest, the Timbuktu Triangle, and other known insurgent hideouts.

The commander noted that the operation forms part of broader efforts to cut off supply chains and weaken the operational capabilities of terrorist groups operating in the North-east.

“The lifeblood of terrorist activities is logistics resupply, and we are deliberately denying them freedom to move supplies, communication equipment, fuel and other operational items,” Martins stated.

He explained that insurgents heavily depend on civilian supply chains and collaborators to transport food, fuel, drugs, motorcycle spare parts, and communication gadgets into remote camps.

Martins further alleged that some civilians willingly assist the terrorists, while others cooperate under threats and intimidation.

“There is a high level of collusion between some members of the civil populace and the terrorists,” he said.

The commander disclosed that troops had successfully infiltrated several logistics and transport networks linked to insurgent operations through intelligence gathering and targeted operations against transporters, traders, and supply syndicates.

According to him, security forces have arrested hundreds of suspected logistics suppliers and collaborators connected to terrorist activities.

He added that troops have intercepted multiple consignments of petrol, medical supplies, food items, drugs, and spare parts believed to be heading toward terrorist enclaves through routes stretching from Kano to Nguru and other access corridors leading into Sambisa Forest and the Timbuktu Triangle.

Martins also revealed that insurgents had been using livestock markets to sell stolen animals and generate funds for their operations.

To address the problem, security agencies and local authorities have introduced livestock verification systems requiring proof of ownership before animals can be traded.

The commander said the intensified military operations have significantly disrupted terrorist logistics chains, weakened their mobility, and forced several insurgents and their family members to surrender.

He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist communication systems, supply routes, and financing networks across the North-east.