Troops Arrest Chadian Woman, Foil Suspected Terrorist Supply Network in Borno
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have disrupted a suspected terrorist logistics network with the arrest of a 48-year-old Chadian woman allegedly transporting illicit drugs and alcoholic beverages to insurgents operating in the Lake Chad region of Borno State.
The arrest was made during an intelligence-led operation by troops of Sector 3, Joint Task Force North East, along the Maiduguri–Monguno highway on Thursday.
In a statement, the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Capt. Mohammed Goni, said the suspect, identified as Mrs. Rachael Samuel, was intercepted while travelling towards Kwatan Doron Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area.
He said the suspect is a citizen of the Republic of Chad from Kelo in Chari-Baguirmi Province.
According to the statement, the operation followed credible intelligence on the movement of supplies suspected to be destined for terrorist elements operating within the Lake Chad Islands.
Items recovered from the suspect included seven compressed bundles of suspected cannabis sativa weighing about 30 kilogrammes, two 10-litre containers of hydromercuric chloride, popularly known as “Suck and Die,” one carton containing 48 bottles of dry gin, and 61 bottles of herbal alcoholic beverages.
Troops also recovered a mobile phone, two Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards, cash and other personal belongings.
Military authorities said the suspect is in custody, while the recovered items will be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The military described the operation as another major success in efforts to dismantle logistics networks supporting terrorist groups in the North-East.
It noted that intelligence reports indicate insurgents often rely on illicit drugs and intoxicants to boost endurance, suppress fear and sustain their operations.
The Theatre Command commended the troops for their professionalism and vigilance, reaffirming its commitment to intensifying operations against terrorists and individuals providing them with logistics and other forms of support.
It also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the region.
