By Augustine Ehikioya
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) under Operation DESERT SANITY V, have recorded another significant success in efforts to degrade terrorist logistics and criminal support networks in the North East.
Acting on credible intelligence on 23 January, 2026, troops arrested a suspected drug dealer, Hauwa Abulazeez, aged 65, in Askira Uba Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State.
The suspect, according to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), was alleged to be one of the suppliers of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram Terrorist elements operating through Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu, and Gaya, and a key conduit in the distribution of the substance across several communities within the Theatre.
The statement said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect sourced the illicit substance from Sarti Baruwa LGA of Taraba State and transported it through established supply routes for onward distribution.
“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 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.”
The interception, it said, underscored 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.
“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,” the statement stated.
