Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested five individuals found transporting about N37 million in cash suspected to be linked to terrorist financing.
The suspects were apprehended while travelling in a red Golf wagon with registration number MNG 463 XA on their way to Magumeri in Borno State. Soldiers on routine checkpoint duty stopped the vehicle and, during a search, discovered the money hidden inside a “Ghana must go” bag and a sack.
Preliminary findings indicate that the three men and two women initially claimed they were unaware of the exact amount in their possession but later said the funds were intended for distribution to beneficiaries of a non-governmental organisation. About 10 mobile phones were also recovered from them.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer at the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, February 16, 2026. He said the interception forms part of intensified efforts to cut off terrorist logistics and financial networks in the region.
According to the statement, troops have maintained momentum following recent defensive operations in Pulka and Madara-Girau, shifting to targeted logistics disruption operations aimed at weakening terrorist support systems.
On February 16, 2026, troops of Sector 1, working with vigilante forces, carried out a coordinated night ambush along a known crossing route used by ISWAP elements moving from the Cameroon axis into Nigeria. The insurgents reportedly ran into heavy gunfire and retreated in disarray.
A follow-up search of the area led to the recovery of significant logistics supplies believed to be meant for terrorist resupply, further disrupting their operational capabilities.
In a related operation at the Forward Operating Base Chabbal Checkpoint, troops intercepted the vehicle carrying the five suspects and the concealed N37 million. The military described the seizure as a major breakthrough in efforts to dismantle financial channels suspected of supporting terrorist activities.
The statement added that the coordinated operations reflect a proactive strategy to block both movement corridors and financial networks used by insurgents, thereby limiting their capacity to regroup and sustain combat operations.
The Military High Command commended the troops and collaborating security agencies for their vigilance, professionalism, and resilience, noting that morale remains high.
“Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its mandate to frustrate terrorist ambitions and restore enduring peace and economic stability across the North East region.”
