Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
TROOPS of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have disrupted an illicit drug supply network allegedly linked to Boko Haram terrorist elements, arresting a suspected dealer and seizing a large consignment of cannabis sativa in Borno State.
The operation, carried out under Operation DESERT SANITY V, followed credible intelligence received on 23 January 2026.
Acting on the information, troops arrested a 65-year-old woman, Hauwa Abulazeez, in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
Military authorities alleged that the suspect was a key supplier of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram elements operating in Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu and Gaya, as well as a major conduit in the distribution of the substance across several communities within the North East theatre.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the illicit drugs were sourced from Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area of Taraba State and transported through established supply routes for onward distribution.
During the operation, troops recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, with an estimated total weight of about 30 kilogrammes.
The suspect is currently in military custody undergoing preliminary investigation, while follow-up operations are ongoing to identify, track and dismantle the wider trafficking and distribution network connected to the seizure.
The military said the interception highlights the importance of cutting off illicit supply chains that fuel terrorism, criminality and instability in the region.
According to the Joint Task Force, denying such networks access to resources contributes to improved security, reduced criminal influence and the strengthening of law and order across the North East.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to sustained, intelligence-driven operations aimed at eliminating all forms of criminality in the region, vowing to continue applying pressure on criminal and terrorist networks until lasting peace and stability are achieved.
