Military authorities have clarified the status of an individual who was earlier reported by sections of the media as a suspected terrorist following his interception by troops during an operation in Cross Kauwa, Borno State.
In a statement on Thursday, OPERATION HADIN KAI (OPHK) said the individual, now identified as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi, was taken into custody by troops of the 68 Battalion during an exploitation operation after the Cross Kauwa attack, in line with standard operational procedures.
The theatre command explained that, given the security situation in the North-East and the use of border corridors by terrorist groups for movement and logistics, the suspect was detained for profiling and further investigation.
However, comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes found no evidence linking Zein-Nur to any terrorist organisation. Investigations established that he is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger, and earns a living as a camel rearer operating beyond the River Komadougou.
OPHK said the individual has therefore been cleared of any terrorist links, stressing that all persons intercepted under suspicious circumstances during military operations are subjected to due process and security screening to distinguish innocent civilians from terrorist elements.
The theatre command reaffirmed its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action while maintaining professionalism, respect for human rights, and adherence to the rule of law.
