Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi.
Operation HADIN KAI has cleared a man earlier reported as a suspected terrorist after comprehensive investigations found no evidence linking him to any terrorist group.
The clarification was contained in a statement signed on Thursday by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni.
The clarification follows media reports published on July 14, 2026, after troops of the 68 Battalion intercepted the individual during an exploitation operation conducted in the aftermath of the terrorist attack at Cross Kauwa.
The Theatre Command identified the man as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi.
According to the military, troops acted in line with established operational procedures by taking him into custody for profiling and investigation, citing the persistent security challenges in the North East and the use of border corridors by terrorist groups to move fighters, logistics and supplies.
However, after comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes, the command said it found no evidence linking Zein-Nur to any known terrorist organisation.
The investigation instead established that he is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger, who earns his livelihood as a camel rearer operating beyond the River Komadougou.
Based on the findings, Operation HADIN KAI said the individual has been cleared of any terrorist links.
The command stressed that everyone intercepted under suspicious circumstances during military operations is subjected to thorough security screening and due process to ensure innocent civilians are distinguished from terrorist elements.
It noted that the procedure remains a critical part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts aimed at protecting communities while preventing terrorists from exploiting the region’s porous border corridors.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, the Theatre Command said troops will continue to carry out operations in line with the highest standards of discipline, respect for human rights and the rule of law while sustaining pressure on terrorist groups across the North East.
