Troops uncover, destroy pressure-plate IED during patrol in Borno
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have uncovered and safely destroyed a pressure-plate improvised explosive device (IED) planted by terrorists during a patrol operation at Gonin Masari (Twin Mast) in Borno State.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the device was discovered at about 8:30 a.m. on July 27 by troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade while conducting patrol and exploitation operations in the area.
The sources said the troops noticed irregular terrain features, prompting them to carry out a detailed scan of the general area, which led to the discovery of a connected pressure-plate IED suspected to have been planted by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.
An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was immediately deployed to the location and successfully carried out a controlled detonation of the device at about 11:30 a.m., eliminating the threat without casualties.
Military sources said the operation did not cause any major disruption to movement along the major supply route (MSR), as normal activities continued after the area was declared safe.
The successful detection and destruction of the explosive device highlight the vigilance of troops conducting route clearance and patrol operations to deny terrorists the ability to target military convoys and civilian road users.
Security sources added that the general security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops continue to maintain high morale and operational readiness.
