Army Arrests Two Suspected Boko Haram Logistics Suppliers in Borno, Seizes Tramadol and Chemicals

Nigerian troops fighting insurgency in the North-East have arrested two men suspected of supplying logistics to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) during separate operations in Borno State.

The arrests were carried out by troops of Operation Hadin Kai as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle support networks believed to be aiding terrorist activities across the region. Military authorities said the operations were intelligence-driven and targeted individuals suspected of providing materials and supplies to insurgents.

One of the suspects, identified as Musa Idi, was arrested on June 8 at about 2:00 p.m. by personnel of the 162 Amphibious Battalion at a checkpoint along the Mandaragirau–Sabon Gari road. Troops reportedly intercepted the suspect while conducting routine security checks.

Items recovered from him included five containers of Atraforce chemical, five containers of Kelisate herbicide, 100 sachets of tramadol capsules, and two nylon bags containing substances suspected to be smoked narcotics.

Military sources said Musa Idi is currently undergoing preliminary investigation at the Abogo Largema Military Cantonment as authorities seek to determine the extent of his alleged links to terrorist groups operating in the North-East.

In a separate operation on the same day, troops of the 19 Battalion and 25 Brigade Garrison, working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), arrested another suspect, Abu Aji, during a patrol around Damboa Market in Borno State.

The military alleged that Abu Aji was involved in supplying logistics to Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters operating within Damboa Local Government Area. During initial interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to providing support materials to insurgents.

Recovered items from his possession included 19 wristwatches, a large mat, a transistor radio, and two cartons of agro-allied chemicals. The suspect and the seized materials have since been transferred to the Headquarters of the 25 Brigade for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The latest arrests underscore ongoing military efforts to cut off supply chains and support networks that sustain insurgent operations in the North-East, a region that has faced years of attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP militants.