Troops arrest Chadian woman over alleged terrorists’ supply network in Borno

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a 48-year-old Chadian woman suspected of supplying illicit drugs and alcoholic beverages to insurgents operating in the Lake Chad region.

The suspect was apprehended by troops of Sector 3 of the Joint Task Force (North East) during an intelligence-led operation 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 suspect was intercepted while travelling towards Kwatan Doron Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

She was identified as Rachael Samuel, a citizen of the Republic of Chad from Kelo in Chari-Baguirmi Province.

According to the military, the operation followed credible intelligence indicating the movement of supplies allegedly destined for insurgents operating within the Lake Chad Islands.

Items recovered from the suspect included seven compressed bundles of suspected cannabis sativa weighing approximately 30 kilograms, two 10-litre containers of a chemical identified as hydromercuric chloride, commonly known as “Suck and Die,” one carton containing 48 bottles of dry gin, and 61 bottles of herbal alcoholic beverages.

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Security operatives also recovered a mobile phone, two Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards, personal belongings and an undisclosed sum of cash.

The military said the suspect remains in custody, while the recovered exhibits will be handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Describing the operation as a significant breakthrough, the Theatre Command said it forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle logistics networks that sustain insurgent groups in the North-East.

According to the statement, intelligence reports suggest that insurgent fighters often rely on illicit drugs and intoxicants to enhance endurance, suppress fear and support their operations.

The Command commended the troops for their professionalism and vigilance, reiterating its commitment to intensifying operations against insurgents and individuals suspected of providing them with logistical support.

It also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence to strengthen ongoing counter-insurgency operations across the region.