Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded another breakthrough in their ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist logistics and criminal support networks in the region.
The arrest was made on January 23, 2026, under Operation DESERT SANITY V, following what the military described as “credible intelligence” in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to the military, a 65-year-old woman, Hauwa Abulazeez, was apprehended for allegedly supplying cannabis sativa to Boko Haram terrorist elements operating across several communities in Askira Uba and adjoining areas.
Confirming the development, the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said the suspect was believed to be a major conduit in the supply and distribution of illicit drugs used to sustain terrorist and criminal activities.
“The suspect is alleged to be one of the suppliers of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram terrorist elements operating through Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu, and Gaya, and a key conduit in the distribution of the substance across several communities within the Theatre,” Lt. Col. Uba said in a statement.
He disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that the illicit substance was sourced from Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area of Taraba State and transported through established supply routes for onward distribution within the North East.
During the operation, troops recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, with an estimated total weight of about 30 kilograms.
“The recovered drugs represent a significant interception intended to sustain illicit and terrorist-related activities within the area,” the OPHK spokesperson noted.
The suspect is currently in military custody and undergoing preliminary investigation, while follow-up operations are ongoing to identify and dismantle other members of the trafficking and distribution network.
Lt. Col. Uba said the interception highlights the importance of targeting illicit supply chains that fuel insecurity in the region.
“By denying these criminal networks access to resources, the operation contributes to improved security conditions, reduced criminal influence, and the reinforcement of lawful authority and order across the region,” he said.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Joint Task Force, the OPHK spokesman stressed that troops would continue sustained, intelligence-driven operations across the Theatre.
“Operation HADIN KAI remains unwavering in its resolve to confront and eliminate all forms of criminality across the North East, until enduring peace and stability are achieved,” he added.
