The arrested suspect
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have dealt another blow to terrorist logistics operations in the North-East 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.
The suspect, identified as Rachael Samuel, was intercepted during an intelligence-led operation conducted 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), Captain Mohammed Goni, said the operation was carried out following credible intelligence on the movement of logistics intended for terrorist elements hiding within the Lake Chad Islands.
According to the military, the suspect, a citizen of the Republic of Chad from Kelo in Chari-Baguirmi Province, was travelling towards Kwatan Doron Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State when she was intercepted by troops.
Items recovered during the operation included seven compressed bundles of suspected cannabis sativa weighing about 30 kilogrammes, two 10-litre containers of hydromercuric chloride, commonly known as “Suck and Die,” one carton containing 48 bottles of dry gin, and 61 bottles of herbal alcoholic beverages.
The troops also recovered a mobile phone, two Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards, cash and other personal belongings from the suspect.
Captain Goni disclosed that the suspect is currently in military custody, while the recovered exhibits will be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agency for further investigation and prosecution.
He described the operation as another significant breakthrough in the ongoing campaign to dismantle the logistics and supply chains sustaining terrorist groups across the North-East.
The military noted that intelligence has consistently shown that insurgents often depend on illicit drugs and intoxicants to boost endurance, suppress fear and aid their violent operations.
Commending the troops for their vigilance, professionalism and commitment, the Theatre Command reaffirmed its resolve to intensify operations against terrorists and individuals involved in providing logistics, supplies and other forms of support to criminal elements.
The command also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence capable of enhancing ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the region.
