Nigerian troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a Chinese national along with several suspected logistical suppliers and collaborators of terrorist groups during coordinated operations in Borno and Yobe States, the Defence Headquarters announced on Thursday.
Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, revealed during a weekly media briefing in Abuja that the arrests took place between June 5 and 7 in Kukawa and Ngala Local Government Areas of Borno and Geidam LGA of Yobe State.
The suspects were apprehended with items including a vehicle, motorcycle, mobile cellphones, a Chinese International passport, and N10,000 in cash. Military authorities allege the arrested individuals were involved in aiding and abetting terrorist groups such as the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama'atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda'Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS).
"These arrests are in keeping with our unrelenting effort to take down terrorist support networks," said Gen. Kangye.
Wider Counter-Terrorism Operations
The arrests were part of broader military operations conducted between June 6 and 10 targeting terrorist enclaves in Gwoza, Ngala, and Marte LGAs in Borno, as well as Bade and Gujba LGAs in Yobe.
During these operations, troops neutralized multiple insurgents, rescued three kidnapped victims, and seized arms, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), vehicles, and motorcycles. Several terrorist camps and facilities were also destroyed.
Gen. Kangye further noted that the sustained military pressure has forced numerous insurgents to surrender. Between June 6 and 11, many terrorists, including men, women, and children, laid down their arms and surrendered to Nigerian forces.
Nationwide Military Successes
The Armed Forces of Nigeria also reported achievements in other operations across the country, including Operation Fasin Yamma in the North West, Operation Safe Haven in the North Central, and Operation Delta Safe in the South South. These operations continue to make progress in counter-terrorism, anti-banditry, and anti-oil theft efforts.
According to the Defence Headquarters, all arrested suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigations.
The arrest of foreign nationals in connection with terrorism activities raises questions about international dimensions of the insurgency that has plagued Nigeria's Northeast for over a decade.
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