IED event in Nigeria on Sat 23rd May 2026

Security officials said the terrorists also planted three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along the Bula Zarma–Mangari route in an attempt to ambush advancing troops. However, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team successfully detected and detonated the explosives without casualties. Troops continued the pursuit for several kilometres into the bush, although no further contact was made as the terrorists reportedly retreated in disarray. The rescued victims comprised 52 men, 33 women and seven children. The victims, alongside the recovered eight vehicles, were escorted to Damaturu before being allowed to continue their journey. Military authorities confirmed that no casualties were recorded among troops during the operation. The rescue operation forms part of ongoing counterterrorism offensives under Operation Desert Sanity V aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and protecting civilians across the North-East region.