Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, the military task force in Nigeria's North-east, have arrested a Sudanese national suspected of being a terrorist fighter and collaborator during a counter-terrorism operation in Borno State. The military confirmed the arrest on Monday, highlighting the ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist activities in the region.
Arrest of Sudanese Suspect and Ghanaian Woman
The suspect, identified as Musa Fashir, 32, was arrested alongside a woman who claimed to be an illegal immigrant from Ghana. The operation was conducted by troops of the 115 Task Force Battalion in Lassa, Dille General Area of Askira/Uba Local Government Area. According to a statement by the task force spokesperson, Mohammed Goni, a Nigerian Army captain, the operation took place at approximately 11:48 am on 19 July.
Preliminary intelligence linked Fashir to terrorist elements operating in the region, raising concerns about the involvement of foreign actors in supporting the insurgency. The second suspect, Mary Florence, 36, claimed to be an illegal immigrant from Ghana. Goni stated that the circumstances surrounding her presence and the authenticity of her claims are under investigation.
Military Custody and Investigation
Both suspects are currently in military custody, undergoing profiling and interrogation. The military aims to establish their identities, determine the extent of their activities, and ascertain any links to terrorist groups or transnational criminal networks. Goni emphasized that the arrests underscore the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the commitment to disrupting terrorist support networks, preventing the infiltration of foreign fighters, and safeguarding communities in the North-east.
Call for Public Cooperation
Goni urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, noting that public cooperation remains vital to restoring lasting peace and security across the region.
