Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recovered fragments of an explosive device for forensic examination and arrested 12 suspected drug peddlers during separate operations in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State.

The explosive fragments were recovered from the scene of an earlier security incident and have been preserved for forensic analysis as part of ongoing investigations, according to military sources.

In a separate intelligence-led operation, troops raided identified criminal hideouts across Monguno, resulting in the arrest of 12 suspects believed to be involved in illicit drug trafficking.

Security operatives also recovered assorted hard drugs, including cannabis, tramadol and other prohibited substances suspected to have been intended for distribution to criminal elements operating within the area.

The arrested suspects, along with the recovered exhibits, have been taken into custody for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Military authorities said the operations are part of sustained efforts by Operation HADIN KAI to dismantle criminal networks and disrupt activities that support insurgency in the North-East.

The sources added that troops will continue intelligence-driven operations targeting terrorist logistics, drug trafficking and other forms of organised crime across the theatre.