By Sabiu Abdullahi
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), operating under Operation DESERT SANITY V, have recorded another breakthrough in efforts to weaken terrorist logistics and criminal support structures in the North East.
This is contained in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information OfficerHeadquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on January 25, 2026.
The success followed actionable intelligence received on January 23, 2026, which led to the arrest of a suspected drug dealer, Hauwa Abulazeez, aged 65, in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The suspect is believed to be a major supplier of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram elements operating in Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu and Gaya communities, and is also accused of serving as a key link in the distribution chain across several locations within the theatre of operation.
Preliminary findings revealed that the illicit substance was allegedly sourced from Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area of Taraba State before being transported through established routes for distribution.
During the operation, troops recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, with an estimated weight of about 30 kilograms.
The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing preliminary investigation, while further operations continue to track and dismantle the wider network involved in the trafficking and distribution of the drug.
The military noted that disrupting such illicit supply chains plays a critical role in reducing violence, criminal activity and instability across the region, while strengthening lawful authority and security.
Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to confronting all forms of criminal activity in the North East, stressing that intelligence-led operations and sustained pressure will continue until lasting peace and stability are restored.