Troops of Nigerian Army have arrested Hauwa Abulazeez, a 65-year-old woman, over claims that she supplies cannabis to Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State.
Gatekeepers News reports that the arrest took place on Friday in Askira Uba Local Government Area during an operation carried out by troops under Operation Hadin Kai in the North East.
In a statement released on Sunday, Sani Uba, the media information officer of the joint task force, said the suspect is believed to be one of those providing illicit drugs to terrorists operating in communities such as Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu, and Gaya.
Uba stated that the suspect allegedly transported the drugs from Taraba State into different parts of Borno through known routes.
According to the statement, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect sourced the illicit substance from Sarti Baruwa LGA of Taraba State and transported it through established supply routes for onward distribution.”
The statement further disclosed that troops recovered a large quantity of cannabis during the operation. It said, “During the operation, 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, with an estimated total weight of approximately 30 kilograms, were recovered, representing a significant interception intended to sustain illicit activities.”
The army confirmed that the suspect is currently being held while further investigations continue. The release stated, suspect is currently in custody undergoing preliminary investigation, while follow-up actions are ongoing to identify and dismantle the wider network involved in the trafficking and distribution of the substance.”
Uba noted that disrupting illegal supply chains plays a vital role in restoring security across the region. The statement said, “The interception underscores the broader impact of denying illicit supply chains that fuel violence, criminality, and instability. By disrupting these networks, the operation contributes to improved security conditions, reduced criminal influence, and the reinforcement of lawful authority and order across the region.”
The task force also reaffirmed its commitment to sustained operations against criminal activities in the North East.
The statement added, “OPHK remains unwavering in its resolve to confront and eliminate all forms of criminality across the North East. Through sustained intelligence-driven operations and continuous pressure across the Theatre, troops will persist in denying criminal networks the space, resources, and freedom required to operate, until enduring peace and stability are achieved.”
