Security forces on red alert as DHQ raises alarm on terrorists’ plans

The military high command, on Thursday, raised the alarm that terrorists were planning to destroy some critical infrastructures in many parts of the country.

It, however, said all the security agencies responsible for securing critical facilities and infrastructures had been placed on red alert, saying the military had also put measures in place to forestall the occurrence.

During a press briefing at Defence Headquarters, Abuja, on Thursday, Director, Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, said troops are confronted by a vicious enemy who are constantly trying to kill citizens.

Daily Trust had reported how troops of the Nigerian Army deployed for counter-terrorism operations in Yobe State thwarted an attack by Boko Haram terrorists on high-tension electric pylons in the state.

Attacks on critical infrastructures and facilities, particularly on electricity infrastructures, especially in some parts of Northeast, have been on the geometric rise in the recent time, causing a blackout in the affected areas.

Checks by our correspondent showed that three electricity towers, T193, T194 and T195, were destroyed on December 28, 2023, by terrorists who used improvised explosive devices in Borno State.

Similarly, in June 2024, two towers, T193 and T194, along the 330 kilovolts single circuit transmission line were destroyed by vandals suspected to be members of Boko Haram members and ISWAP in Borno State.

Speaking at the briefing, Buba, a Major-General, terror groups perpetrating insecurity across the country would not stop doing so until they are stopped.

The senior military officer said, “We are aware of some of the plans to target some critical infrastructure in the country. Accordingly, we have emplaced measures to forestall such plans.

“Security agencies responsible for securing critical infrastructure and facilities have also been placed on alert. Accordingly, some of such plans have been frustrated.”

Buba said in the fight against terrorism, citizens must understand that every stakeholder must never compromise on security.

He added, “We force the terrorists to pay a price for every act of aggression against citizens of this country. We recognise and have included this as part of our strategy to win the war.

“Overall, we have no choice but to fight for the safety and security of our citizens. We also fight to safeguard our nation and preserve our way of life as a people.

“For us a force, Defence is the essence of what we do as an armed forces. Accordingly, we would defeat the terrorists on the battlefield and help our nation flourish again.”