He Has No Affiliation With Any Known Terrorist Group – Operation HADIN KAI Clears Man Detained During Military Operation

Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has announced that a man who was taken into custody during a military operation following the attack on Cross Kauwa has been cleared of any links to terrorist groups after a thorough investigation.

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The clarification comes after reports published by some media outlets on July 14, 2026, concerning an individual intercepted by troops of the 68 Battalion during an exploitation operation.

According to the military, the individual has been identified as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi.

Operation HADIN KAI explained that, considering the prevailing security situation and the frequent use of border routes by terrorist elements for movement and logistics, troops followed standard operational procedures by taking him into custody for profiling and further investigation.

Following comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes, the military said there was no evidence connecting Zein-Nur to any known terrorist organisation.

Investigations further established that he is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger, and earns his livelihood as a camel rearer, operating beyond the River Komadougou.

Based on the outcome of the investigation, Operation HADIN KAI confirmed that the man has been fully cleared of any terrorist affiliation.

The military also reiterated that individuals intercepted under suspicious circumstances during ongoing operations are routinely subjected to security screening and due process to ensure that innocent civilians are properly distinguished from members of terrorist groups.

In a statement released by the Nigerian army, It reads: “OPERATION HADIN KAI CLARIFIES STATUS OF INDIVIDUAL PREVIOUSLY REPORTED AS TERROR SUSPECT, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO PROFESSIONALISM

Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) wishes to clarify reports published in some sections of the media on 14 July 2026 regarding an individual intercepted by troops of 68 Battalion during an exploitation operation following the attack at Cross Kauwa.

The individual has now been identified as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi. In view of the prevailing security environment and the exploitation of border corridors by terrorist elements for movement and logistics, troops acted in accordance with established operational procedures by taking him into custody for profiling and further investigation.

Comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes did not establish that the individual has any affiliation to any known terrorist group. Investigations further confirmed that he is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger who engages in camel rearing beyond the River Komadougou.

Operation HADIN KAI has consequently cleared the individual of any terrorist links. The Theatre Command reiterates 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 distinguished from terrorist elements.

Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in denying terrorists freedom of action while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.

MOHAMMED GONI

Captain

Acting Military Information Officer

Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI

MAIDUGURI

23 July, 2026″