Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have uncovered a large cache of 12.7mm ammunition warheads in Maiduguri, Borno State, as part of sustained counter-terrorism operations across the North-East.
The ammunition was recovered in the Bulumkutu Railway area following actionable intelligence obtained during ongoing security operations in the theatre.
Military authorities said the discovery was made after troops intensified presence in the area, particularly in the aftermath of recent suicide bombing attempts thwarted by security forces.
Confirming the development, the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said the recovery followed a distress call received by troops.
“At about 3:00 p.m. on 2 January 2026, our troops received information on suspicious metallic objects concealed in a drainage channel at Bulumkutu Railway,” he said.
Uba explained that troops immediately mobilised to the scene with Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams to secure the area and prevent civilian casualties.
“A detailed search resulted in the recovery of 1,270 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition warheads, including live rounds, alongside power banks hidden within the drainage,” he disclosed.
According to him, safety measures were promptly taken while the drainage channel was being further examined to rule out the presence of additional explosives.
He added that troops and other security agencies have continued to dominate the area to prevent criminal elements from accessing the recovered items.
“There were no casualties recorded during the operation, and the situation remains calm,” Uba said.
The military stressed that intelligence-led operations and cooperation from members of the public remain critical in countering terrorism in the region.
Residents were again urged to report suspicious items or movements to security agencies without delay.
Troops Recover 1,270 Rounds of Anti-Aircraft Ammunition in Maiduguri
