Troops Intercept N37 Million Cash and Five Suspects in Borno Terror Financing Operation
In a significant counter-terrorism operation, Nigerian Army troops from Operation HADIN KAI have intercepted five suspects transporting approximately N37 million in cash, which is suspected to be linked to terrorist financing activities. The dramatic arrest occurred in Borno State, marking a critical blow to the financial networks supporting insurgent groups in the region.
Details of the Interception and Arrest
The suspects were apprehended while traveling in a red Golf wagon with the registration number MNG 463 XA, en route to Magumeri, Borno State. Troops on routine security duty stopped the vehicle at a checkpoint, leading to the discovery of the large sum of money. The cash was carefully concealed inside a "Ghana must go" bag and a sack, raising immediate suspicions about its intended use.
During the search, troops also recovered about 10 assorted mobile phones from the suspects, which are believed to be connected to terrorist coordination activities. The interception took place on Monday, February 16, 2026, as confirmed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI.
Suspects' Claims and Preliminary Investigation
According to preliminary investigations, the group—comprising two women and three men—initially claimed they were unaware of the total amount of money in their possession. However, they later alleged that the cash was meant for distribution to beneficiaries of a non-governmental organization (NGO). This claim is currently under intense scrutiny by security agencies, as it contrasts sharply with the suspicious circumstances of the transport and concealment.
The arrest highlights ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist sustainment networks, with troops transitioning from defensive engagements to deliberate logistics strangulation operations. These actions are part of a broader strategy to cripple terrorist supply and financing architectures across the theatre of operation.
Broader Operational Context and Successes
In a related development, troops of Sector 1, in conjunction with Vigilante Forces, executed a well-coordinated night ambush along a known terrorist crossing route frequently used by ISWAP elements transiting from the Cameroon axis into Nigeria. The terrorists, caught off-guard by the troops' concealed tactical deployment, faced effective enfilade fire and were forced to withdraw in disarray.
Subsequent exploitation of the contact area led to the recovery of a sizeable cache of critical logistics supplies, assessed to be intended for terrorist resupply operations. This interception significantly disrupts the terrorists' sustainment capacity and operational reach within the area, with troops remaining in firm control and conducting further exploitation operations to consolidate gains.
Strategic Implications and Military Response
The interception of the N37 million cash represents a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle financial conduits suspected to support terrorist logistics and operational activities. These coordinated operations demonstrate Operation HADIN KAI's proactive strategy of tightening the noose on terrorist supply chains by simultaneously targeting physical movement corridors and financial enablers.
The sustained pressure across key transit routes and support networks reflects a deliberate approach to weaken terrorist elements from within and limit their capacity to regenerate combat power. The Military High Command has commended the vigilance, utmost professionalism, and resilience of the troops and collaborating security agencies, whose morale and fighting efficiency remain high.
Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its mandate to frustrate terrorist ambitions and restore enduring peace and economic stability across the North East region. This latest interception underscores the ongoing challenges in combating terrorism and the critical role of financial intelligence in disrupting insurgent networks.
