Residents of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State in northeastern Nigeria, narrowly avoided a major security incident after operatives of the Borno State Police Command successfully neutralised an explosive device concealed beneath a telecommunications network mast.
The operation took place on Monday, 15 December 2025, at Chuskon, within the Federal Low Cost Area of Maiduguri, following intelligence received by officers of the ITE Police Division. According to official police sources, the device was identified as an Unexploded Ordnance, strategically planted in a location considered critical to public communication infrastructure.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Assistant Superintendent of Police Nahum Daso, the intervention was described as a significant operational success under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid. Okay News reports that the prompt response of the police prevented what could have resulted in widespread destruction and loss of lives.
“The Borno State Police Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police Naziru Abdulmajid, has recorded another operational success with the recovery of an Unexploded Ordnance in Maiduguri, thereby averting a potential explosion and threat to public safety,” the statement said.
The police spokesperson explained that the report of a suspected explosive was received at approximately 1106 hours on the same day. Acting swiftly, the Commissioner of Police directed the Commander of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear unit, Base Thirteen Maiduguri, to immediately mobilise to the scene.
“Upon receipt of the report, the Commissioner of Police immediately directed the Commander, Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Base Thirteen Maiduguri, to mobilise and proceed to the scene,” Daso stated.
He further revealed that the specialised unit responded promptly, cordoned off the surrounding area to ensure civilian safety, and adhered strictly to standard operating procedures while neutralising the device.
“The Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear team swiftly responded, cordoned off the area, and, in line with standard operating procedures, successfully rendered the device safe,” he added.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the Unexploded Ordnance, which had two exposed wires, was deliberately placed by unidentified individuals with the intent to cause significant damage. Items recovered at the scene included a hand plier, a T-shirt, and a pair of shoes.
Following the successful operation, the police command conducted safety awareness sessions for residents of the area, urging them to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious items, and cooperate with security agencies.
The Commissioner of Police also directed all Divisional Police Officers across Borno State to intensify patrols and strengthen surveillance around public and private assets, especially communication installations and other sensitive infrastructure.
Daso reassured the public of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, noting that investigations remain ongoing while normal activities have since resumed in the area.
