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Security authorities have dismissed viral claims alleging that suspected ISWAP or Boko Haram fighters blocked the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway, describing the reports as false and misleading.
The claims, which spread widely on social media alongside a video showing halted vehicles and armed personnel along the highway, had raised concerns that insurgents had taken control of sections of the strategic route connecting Borno and Yobe States.
However, multiple security sources clarified that the situation was linked to a temporary movement restriction imposed by troops of the 29 Brigade as part of an ongoing counter-insurgency operation along the Benisheikh axis in Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.
A senior military source explained that the restriction, which took place in the early hours of Thursday, was a precautionary measure aimed at preventing suspected insurgents from infiltrating Benisheikh town during active clearance operations.
Further details indicated that the operation formed part of broader security efforts in the area, following intelligence reports suggesting possible insurgent movement within the corridor.
Air assets under Operation HADIN KAI also conducted coordinated surveillance in support of ground troops. At about 1:43 a.m. on April 15, an armed reconnaissance patrol covered a 5–10 kilometre radius around Benisheikh and recorded no insurgent activity.
Similarly, at approximately 12:04 a.m. on April 16, aerial patrols monitored key segments of the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway, including Auno, Mainok, Benisheikh, Ngamdu, and parts of Maiduguri metropolis, with no hostile presence observed.
Security officials stressed that the temporary restriction of movement was a standard operational procedure designed to ensure troop effectiveness during clearance missions while safeguarding civilian commuters.
The public was urged to disregard misinformation suggesting insurgent blockade or control of the highway, warning that such narratives could trigger unnecessary panic.
Authorities reaffirmed that the Maiduguri–Damaturu corridor remains under continuous surveillance and is routinely secured through coordinated ground and air operations to maintain stability and prevent insurgent activity along the route.
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