Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have arrested several suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) logistics suppliers, collaborators, and criminal suspects during a series of counter-terrorism operations across Borno and Adamawa states.
The arrests were made under the ongoing Operation Desert Sanity V, a military campaign aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and disrupting their supply chains across Nigeria’s North-East region.
The Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed the development in a statement on Thursday, noting that the successes resulted from intelligence-led operations and sustained military pressure on terrorist groups.
According to Uba, troops and Forest Guards arrested a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP logistics supplier identified as Girema Aliko, 40, at Benisheikh Market in Borno State.
Aliko, who was reportedly on a security watchlist, was intercepted while transporting 30 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to supplying fuel and other logistics to terrorist elements operating within the region.
In a separate operation, troops of the 7 Division Provost Group arrested Mohammed Bulama, 25, in the Ngawom area of Muna Garage, Maiduguri. Military authorities described Bulama as a suspected logistics supplier and informant linked to terrorist groups.
Preliminary investigations reportedly established connections between the suspect and insurgent elements.
Absconded Soldier Arrested
Operation HADIN KAI also announced the arrest of an absconded soldier, Private Umar Bema of the 50 Task Force Battalion, who allegedly deserted his unit with his service weapon.
The suspect was apprehended in Maiduguri, while investigations linked him to criminal activities, including armed robbery, during his absence from military service.
According to the military, his rifle and magazines were recovered, and he remains in custody pending further investigation and disciplinary action.
Suspected Kidnapper Nabbed
Troops also arrested a suspected kidnapper and member of a criminal syndicate in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.
The suspect reportedly confessed to participating in kidnapping operations, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities affecting several communities. He also allegedly disclosed links between criminal gangs and terrorist organizations operating in the region.
Another suspected logistics supplier was arrested along the Gubio axis while transporting large quantities of food items allegedly intended for Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.
ISWAP Suspects Arrested in Adamawa
In Adamawa State, troops working alongside local hunters arrested two suspected ISWAP members.
Military authorities said the suspects confessed to participating in attacks and abductions across parts of Borno and Adamawa states during preliminary interrogation.
The operations also yielded progress under the military’s disarmament and surrender programme, with a fleeing Boko Haram/ISWAP fighter reportedly surrendering alongside two children in the Kukawa axis due to sustained military pressure.
Arms Recovered, Detainees Handed Over
Meanwhile, troops conducting offensive operations in the Damboa axis discovered abandoned terrorist enclaves and recovered rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs as well as PKT ammunition.
The military further disclosed that 13 detainees had been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Uba stated that the cumulative impact of the operations has significantly disrupted terrorist networks, weakened their logistics structures, and reduced their operational capabilities across the North-East.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation HADIN KAI to sustaining military gains and restoring lasting peace, security, and economic stability in the region.
“The Joint Task Force reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, sustaining operational gains, and restoring lasting security, peace and economic stability across the North East region,” he said.
