Troops arrested a 65-year-old woman in a targeted operation. They acted on intelligence and seized illicit substances. This event highlighted efforts to cut off terrorist supplies.
The Arrest
Soldiers from Operation Hadin Kai captured Hauwa Abdulazeez on January 23, 2026. They apprehended her in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. Authorities suspected her of aiding Boko Haram terrorists.
Additionally the operation fell under Operation Desert Sanity V. Troops focused on degrading terrorist logistics. This arrest marked a significant success in those efforts.
Details of the Supply Network
Investigators revealed that Abdulazeez sourced cannabis sativa from Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area in Taraba State. She transported the drugs through established routes. Then she distributed them to terrorist elements.
Furthermore she supplied the substance to groups in Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu, and Gaya. Officials described her as a key conduit in the distribution across communities.
Recovered Evidence
Soldiers recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa during the arrest. The drugs weighed about 30 kilograms. This interception prevented the substances from reaching terrorists
Moreover the seized items represented supplies meant to sustain illicit activities. Authorities held Abdulazeez in custody for preliminary investigation.
Official Statement
Lt-Col Sanni Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, issued a statement. He disclosed details of the operation.
Uba said, “Troops of the Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), under Operation Desert Sanity V, have recorded another significant success in efforts to degrade terrorist logistics and criminal support networks in the North-East.”
He added, “Acting on credible intelligence on January 23, 2026, troops arrested a suspected drug dealer, Hauwa Abdulazeez, aged 65, in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.”
Uba further stated, “The suspect is alleged to be one of the suppliers of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram terrorist elements operating in Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu and Gaya, and a key conduit in the distribution of the substance across several communities within the theatre.”
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities continued follow-up operations. They aimed to identify and dismantle the wider trafficking network.
In addition, Uba emphasized the importance of disrupting such chains. He noted, “By disrupting these networks, the operation contributes to improved security conditions, reduced criminal influence, and the reinforcement of lawful authority and order across the region.”
In conclusion, troops committed to sustained actions. Uba affirmed, “Through sustained intelligence driven operations and continuous pressure across the theatre, troops will persist in denying criminal networks the space, resources and freedom required to operate until enduring peace and stability are achieved.”
This operation demonstrated progress in combating terrorism support systems in the region.
