Military says intelligence findings found no evidence connecting Niger Republic resident to any terrorist group.
The Nigerian military under Operation Hadin Kai has cleared a man previously reported as a suspected terrorist collaborator after an investigation found no evidence linking him to any terrorist organisation.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Captain Mohammed Goni, said the individual, Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, popularly known as Houdairi, was arrested by troops of the 68 Battalion during an intelligence-led operation following an attack in Cross Kauwa, Borno State.
According to the military, the arrest was carried out in line with standard operational procedures due to the prevailing security situation in the North-East and the use of border routes by terrorist groups for movement and logistics.
Captain Goni stated that comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative procedures later established that Zein-Nur had no affiliation with any known terrorist group.
The investigation further identified him as a resident of Shattu Anguba village in Bosso, Niger Republic, where he is engaged in camel herding in communities located across the Komadougou River.
Following the outcome of the investigation, Operation Hadin Kai announced that Zein-Nur had been cleared of all allegations relating to terrorist activities.
The military reiterated that individuals apprehended during security operations are subjected to lawful screening and verification processes designed to distinguish innocent civilians from criminal elements and insurgents.
Operation Hadin Kai also reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism while adhering to operational professionalism, respecting human rights and observing the rule of law in all its operations.
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