By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism with the arrest of a suspected drug dealer accused of supplying cannabis to Boko Haram fighters operating in parts of Borno State.
The suspect, Hauwa Abulazeez, aged 65, was arrested on 23 January 2026 at Askira Uba Local Government Area following credible intelligence received by troops conducting operations under Operation DESERT SANITY V.
Military sources disclosed that the woman is believed to be a key supplier of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram terrorist elements operating across Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu, and Gaya, playing a central role in sustaining the group’s logistics and criminal activities within the North East theatre.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the illicit substance was sourced from Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area of Taraba State and transported through well-established supply routes for distribution across multiple communities. During the operation, troops recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, weighing an estimated 30 kilograms, in what security officials described as a significant interception.
The suspect is currently in military custody undergoing preliminary investigation, while follow-up operations are underway to identify and dismantle the wider trafficking and distribution network linked to the supply of drugs to terrorist elements.
Security experts note that the disruption of illicit supply chains such as drug trafficking remains a critical component in weakening terrorist organisations, as proceeds from such activities often fund violence, recruitment, and destabilisation efforts.
The military reaffirmed that Operation HADIN KAI remains unwavering in its resolve to eliminate all forms of criminality in the North East. Through sustained intelligence-driven operations, troops continue to deny terrorists and criminal networks the resources and freedom required to operate, with the ultimate goal of restoring lasting peace and stability to the region.
