By Helen Udo.
Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) has clarified the status of an individual who was previously reported as a suspected terrorist following an interception by troops during an exploitation operation after the attack on Cross Kauwa in Borno State.
The statement was issued by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint said that Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri, on 23 July 2026. on Thursday, the Theatre Command identified the individual as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein Nur, also known as Houdairi, explaining that he was taken into custody by troops of the 68 Battalion in line with standard operational procedures.
According to the military, the interception occurred amid heightened security concerns and the frequent use of border corridors by terrorist elements for movement, logistics and other criminal activities, necessitating thorough screening of suspicious persons encountered during operations.
The command disclosed that extensive intelligence assessments and investigative processes were conducted to determine the individual’s background and possible links to terrorist organisations operating within the region.
Findings from the investigations, however, revealed that Zein-Nur has no affiliation with any known terrorist group. The military further established that he is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger, and is engaged in camel rearing activities beyond the River Komadougou.
Following the outcome of the investigations, Operation Hadin Kai officially cleared him of any terrorist connection and reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, respect for human rights and the rule of law while sustaining efforts to deny terrorists freedom of action across the North East theatre.
