The Nigerian military has identified Shariff Umar, also known as “Yusuf,” as the alleged mastermind coordinating suicide bombing attacks across the North-East. The revelation followed intelligence-led operations by troops of Operation HADIN KAI.
According to a statement by the operation’s Media Officer, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Umar was deeply involved in recruiting, training, and deploying suicide bombers, as well as coordinating the movement of Improvised Explosive Devices to targets in the region.
The breakthrough came after cordon-and-search operations in Kalmari, Maiduguri, on December 31, 2025, which led to the arrest of 14 suspects linked to a suicide bombing network. Investigations reportedly tied Umar to the December 24 Gamboru Market Mosque attack and a foiled bombing plot in Damaturu.
The military also disclosed that Umar’s wife and stepdaughter were implicated during investigations, highlighting how terror networks exploit family and community ties. Authorities urged continued public vigilance and cooperation.
#NorthEastSecurity #NigerianMilitary #OperationHadinKai #CounterTerrorism #BreakingNews
