Army, NDLEA Arrest 36 Suspects in Joint Operations Targeting Terrorist Logistics, Drug Networks in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), have arrested 36 suspects during joint operations targeting terrorist logistics supplies and illicit drug distribution networks across parts of Borno State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operations were conducted at about 7:00 a.m. on Nov. 5, 2026, by troops of the 7 Division Garrison under Sector 1, in conjunction with NDLEA personnel.
The joint task force carried out coordinated operations at several strategic locations, including Muna Garage Motor Park along the Maiduguri–Dikwa–Gamboru Ngala Main Supply Route (MSR).
Other locations covered included Baga Road Market, Kasuwan Fara, Galadima Motor Park, Gulmati and Gumari motor parks, Njimtilo and Moroti motor parks, as well as the Molai market general area.
The operations were designed to disrupt the supply of logistics to terrorist groups and dismantle illicit drug distribution networks suspected of supporting criminal activities in the region.
During the coordinated exercise, a total of 36 suspects were arrested at various locations.
Items recovered included 12 mobile phones, cash amounting to ₦107,570, wraps of suspected cannabis and other miscellaneous items.
The suspects and recovered exhibits were subsequently handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and necessary action.
The joint operation highlights the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling the criminal support networks that sustain terrorism, particularly the movement of illicit drugs, financial resources and other logistics through commercial routes and public facilities.
Security agencies are expected to sustain the operations to deny terrorist groups access to critical supplies and dismantle networks facilitating their activities across the North-East.
