Troops Arrest Suspected Foreign Terrorist Fighter, Illegal Immigrant in Borno

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected foreign terrorist fighter and an alleged illegal immigrant during an intelligence-led security operation in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, in a move aimed at disrupting terrorist support networks in the North East.

The arrests were made by troops of the 115 Task Force Battalion, Sector 4 Operation HADIN KAI, during an operation conducted at about 11:48 a.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, in the Lassa, Dille General Area.

Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the operation formed part of ongoing intelligence-driven efforts to strengthen security and prevent the infiltration of foreign fighters into the region.

According to him, the troops apprehended 32-year-old Musa Fashir, a Sudanese national suspected to be a foreign terrorist fighter and collaborator. Preliminary intelligence, he disclosed, indicates that the suspect has established links with terrorist elements operating within the North East, raising concerns over attempts by foreign actors to support insurgent activities in the region.

The troops also arrested 36 year old Mary Florence, who claimed to be an illegal immigrant from the Republic of Ghana. Military authorities said the circumstances surrounding her presence in the area, as well as the authenticity of her claims, are currently under investigation.

Captain Goni stated that both suspects are in military custody undergoing profiling and interrogation to establish their true identities, determine the extent of their activities, and ascertain any possible links to terrorist groups or transnational criminal networks.

He noted that the successful operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations by Operation HADIN KAI and reflects the vigilance of troops in denying terrorists and their collaborators freedom of movement.

He added that the arrests demonstrate the military's commitment to dismantling terrorist logistics, financing and support networks, while preventing the infiltration of foreign fighters into the North East.

The military urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information, stressing that collective vigilance remains essential to restoring lasting peace, security and stability across the country.