Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have apprehended a suspected foreign national accused of transporting illicit drugs, alcoholic drinks and other banned substances believed to be intended for terrorist groups operating around the Lake Chad Islands in Borno State.
The Acting Military Information Officer of OPHK, Mohammed Goni, disclosed in a statement that the arrest represents another major achievement in the military’s ongoing efforts to disrupt the supply chains supporting terrorist activities in the North-East.
According to Goni, the suspect was intercepted during a search operation on Thursday along the Maiduguri–Monguno route after troops stopped a vehicle heading towards Kwatan Doron Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area of the state.
The suspect was identified as 48-year-old Mrs Rachael Samuel, a Chadian national from Kelo in Chari-Baguirmi Province, Republic of Chad.
“The suspect was arrested while conveying the prohibited items. Preliminary findings indicate that the recovered substances were being transported to locations within the Lake Chad Islands, an area known to harbour terrorist elements,” the statement said.
Items recovered from the suspect include seven compressed parcels of suspected Cannabis sativa weighing about 30 kilogrammes, two 10-litre containers of hydromercuric chloride, also known as “Suck and Die”, as well as one carton containing 48 bottles of dry gin and 61 bottles of herbal alcoholic drinks.
Goni said the estimated street value of the seized items runs into millions of naira.
Other materials recovered include a mobile phone, two ATM cards, personal belongings and cash.
The military spokesperson added that the suspect remains in custody, while the recovered items have been secured and will be handed over to relevant law enforcement agencies for further investigation and possible prosecution.
He noted that intelligence reports have shown that terrorist groups often rely on illicit drugs and intoxicating substances to boost fighters’ confidence and aid violent operations.
Goni further stated that the interception has disrupted another channel through which terrorists receive supplies, while praising the troops for their alertness and professionalism.
He assured that Operation Hadin Kai would continue its operations against terrorists and individuals supporting their activities across the North-East.