Troops arrest suspected terrorist fighter in Kukawa
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a 20-year-old suspected terrorist fighter who allegedly returned to Kukawa town after spending about a year with terrorist groups operating in the Lake Chad axis of Borno State.
The suspect, identified as Abubakar Ali, also known as Boru Sulum, was arrested at about 5:30 a.m. on Sept. 12 during a first-line cordon-and-search operation conducted by troops following credible intelligence on plans by terrorists to attack troops of 101 Special Forces Battalion, Kukawa.
Military sources said Ali had entered Kukawa town on Sept. 11, prompting security forces to place the area under heightened surveillance.
Preliminary interrogation revealed that the suspect had reportedly fled Kukawa about a year ago and joined terrorist groups operating from the Dumbullum and Kareto camps in Guzamala Local Government Area.
The suspect was also alleged to have displayed an AK-47 rifle on his WhatsApp status in the past, further raising suspicion about his association with the terrorist group.
Ali is currently in the custody of Headquarters 19 Brigade for further investigation and interrogation.
The arrest came as troops intensified security operations around Kukawa to disrupt terrorist infiltration and prevent planned attacks against military positions and communities.
The development underscores the importance of intelligence-led operations in identifying suspected infiltrators and individuals attempting to re-enter communities after associating with terrorist groups.
The general security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops maintain satisfactory morale and operational readiness.
