Troops of Sector 3, Joint Task Force North East under Operation HADIN KAI, have intercepted a suspected foreign drug courier allegedly supplying illicit substances to terrorist elements operating within the Lake Chad Islands.
The operation, carried out on Thursday, July 9, 2026, followed credible intelligence and formed part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist logistics networks in the North East. The troops, during a coordinated search along the Maiduguri–Monguno axis, intercepted a suspicious vehicle heading towards Kwatan Doron Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The suspect, identified as Mrs. Rachael Samuel, 48, a Chadian national from Kelo in Chari-Baguirmi Province, Republic of Chad, was arrested while transporting a large consignment of illicit drugs, alcoholic beverages, and other prohibited substances believed to be destined for insurgents in the Lake Chad Islands.
Recovered items include seven compressed bundles of suspected cannabis sativa weighing about 30 kilogrammes, two 10-litre containers of hydromercuric chloride, commonly referred to as “Suck and Die,” one carton containing 48 bottles of dry gin, and 61 bottles of herbal alcoholic drinks. Other items found in her possession include a mobile phone, two Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards, cash, and personal effects. The total street value of the items is estimated to run into millions of naira.
Military authorities confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody, while the recovered items have been secured pending handover to relevant law enforcement agencies for further investigation and prosecution.
The interception underscores the military’s continued resolve to cut off supply chains sustaining terrorist activities in the region. Intelligence reports have shown that terrorist groups often rely on illicit drugs and intoxicants to embolden fighters, suppress fear, and enhance their operational capabilities.
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By halting the movement of the substances before reaching their intended destination, troops have disrupted a critical support channel for terrorist operations in the Lake Chad region.
The Theatre Command commended the vigilance and professionalism of the troops, reiterating its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist groups and their collaborators. It also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the North East.
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