Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism recorded a significant milestone with the arrest of Shariff Umar, also known as “Yusuf,” who has been identified by security agencies as a top coordinator within a Boko Haram suicide bombing network operating in the North-East.
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According to official military sources, Umar was apprehended during an intelligence-led operation carried out in Maiduguri, Borno State, on December 31, 2025. The operation initially led to the arrest of 14 suspects, with further interrogation and intelligence analysis pointing to Umar as a central figure in coordinating terror activities.
Security authorities allege that Umar played a key role in planning and directing the Gamboru Market Mosque attack of December 24, 2025, an incident that shocked residents and underscored the continued threat posed by extremist groups despite sustained military pressure on their strongholds.
Military sources described the arrest as a critical breakthrough that could weaken Boko Haram’s operational capacity, particularly its recruitment, coordination, and deployment of attack networks. They noted that intelligence gathered from the suspect is already aiding efforts to track down remaining members of the cell and prevent future attacks.
The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations, stressing that collaboration with local communities remains vital to defeating terrorism. Investigations are ongoing to fully dismantle the network and bring all those involved to justice.
This development signals renewed momentum in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism campaign and reinforces the message that there will be no hiding place for individuals who threaten national security and public safety.
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