In a massive blow to terrorist operations in Nigeria’s North East, valiant troops have successfully intercepted a substantial amount of illicit drugs and apprehended a key suspect believed to be a major supplier to Boko Haram insurgents. This incredible bust not only disrupts a vital funding stream for terrorists but also underscores the relentless efforts of our armed forces in safeguarding the nation. This operation highlights the critical link between drug trafficking and terrorism, showing how tackling one can cripple the other.
Key Highlights:
- Troops seized approximately 30kg of cannabis sativa.
- An alleged major drug supplier, Hauwa Abulazeez (65), was arrested.
- The operation, part of ‘Operation Desert Sanity V’, took place in Borno State.
- The suspect allegedly supplied drugs to multiple terrorist cells across several communities.
- This success is crucial in weakening terrorist logistics and criminal influence.
Drug Queen Apprehended in Borno Crackdown
The Nigerian military, through the persistent efforts of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has dealt a significant blow to the logistical capabilities of terrorist groups. In a sting operation codenamed ‘Operation Desert Sanity V’, troops nabbed a 65-year-old woman, Hauwa Abulazeez, in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. Military intelligence suggests Abulazeez is a central figure in the supply of cannabis, commonly known as ‘weed’, to Boko Haram fighters plaguing the North East region. This arrest is more than just seizing drugs; it’s about cutting off the financial lifeline that fuels terror.
A Web of Supply Disrupted
Initial investigations paint a grim picture of Abulazeez’s alleged network. She is accused of being a critical link in a drug distribution chain, supplying her illicit goods to terrorist cells in areas like Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu, and Gaya. These drugs are not just for recreational use; they are believed to be used by terrorists to maintain morale and fund their heinous activities. Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for OPHK, confirmed that the intel leading to the arrest was received on January 23, 2026. The cannabis was reportedly sourced from Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area in Taraba State and transported via established routes.
Seizing the Means to Terror
During the successful operation, troops recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis, a staggering 30 kilograms of the substance. This seizure is a major win, significantly disrupting the flow of drugs that sustain terrorist and criminal enterprises. “The suspect is currently in custody undergoing preliminary investigation, while follow-up operations are ongoing to identify and dismantle the wider trafficking network,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Uba. He further emphasized that crippling these supply chains is paramount to weakening terrorist logistics, curbing criminal influence, and re-establishing lawful authority across the troubled North East.
Broader Military Successes
This isn’t an isolated victory. In a related development, troops from Operation Fansan Yamma, Sector 2, have also achieved remarkable successes against terrorists in Zamfara State. Operating under the 8 Division Garrison Strike Force, a sustained offensive within the Sububu Forest led to the neutralization of two terrorists in Indulumu village, with one AK-47 rifle recovered. The advance continued to Ruduno village, where four more terrorists were eliminated, and another AK-47 rifle, along with a magazine loaded with 28 rounds of ammunition, was seized. Two motorcycles, vital for terrorist mobility, were also destroyed. Captain David Adewusi, the Media Information Officer for Operation Fansan Yamma, reported the liberation of an underage kidnap victim, Halira Ibrahim, during the forest exploitation. Several terrorist camps and operational bases were also destroyed, severely hampering their ability to regroup.
The Fight Continues
The military remains steadfast in its commitment to intelligence-driven operations. The goal is clear: deny terrorists and criminals any freedom of action and restore lasting peace to the affected communities. These operations demonstrate a multi-pronged approach, tackling not only direct combat but also the underlying financial and logistical support systems that enable insurgency. It’s a tough fight, but one that our brave soldiers are winning, bit by bit.
Did You Know?
Cannabis, also known as marijuana or weed, has been identified as a significant source of funding for various terrorist and criminal organizations worldwide. The trade in illicit drugs provides substantial revenue that can be used to acquire weapons, recruit fighters, and sustain operations. Disrupting these drug supply networks is therefore a critical strategy in counter-terrorism efforts.
| Item | Quantity | Alleged Recipient |
|---|---|---|
| Cannabis Sativa | Approx. 30 kg (14 compressed blocks) | Boko Haram Terrorists |
| Arrested Suspect | 1 (Hauwa Abulazeez, 65) | Alleged Major Supplier |
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