Operation HADIN KAI has clarified that an individual earlier reported as a terror suspect following military operations in Borno State has been cleared of any links to terrorist groups after detailed investigations.
In a statement issued in Maiduguri on Thursday, the military said the man, initially intercepted by troops of the 68 Battalion during an exploitation operation after the attack on Cross Kauwa, has been identified as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi.
The Theatre Command explained that troops acted in line with standard operational procedures when they took him into custody, given the security situation in the North-East and the use of border corridors by terrorist elements for movement and logistics.
According to the statement, comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes established that the individual has no affiliation with any known terrorist organisation.
Investigations further revealed that Zein-Nur is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger, and is engaged in camel rearing beyond the River Komadougou.
“Operation HADIN KAI has consequently cleared the individual of any terrorist links,” the statement said.
The command stressed that all persons intercepted under suspicious circumstances during military operations are subjected to due process and appropriate security screening to ensure that innocent civilians are separated from terrorist elements.
The clarification follows media reports published on July 14, 2026, which had identified the man as a suspected terrorist.
Operation HADIN KAI reiterated its commitment to combating insurgency while maintaining professionalism, respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law.
The statement was signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI.
