Security forces in the North-East have detained a man believed to be a key distributor of hard drugs to Boko Haram and ISWAP cells operating across several communities in Borno and Adamawa.
The arrest, according to military insiders, is considered a significant disruption to the insurgents’ supply network.
The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Zubairu Muhammad, was apprehended during an early-morning operation carried out by soldiers of the 232 Battalion in Uba, Adamawa.
Furthermore, the troops reportedly moved in at about 6:30 a.m. after receiving intelligence on his movements.
Investigators familiar with the case revealed that Muhammad is suspected of funnelling cannabis sativa and crystal meth, widely known as ICE, to extremist groups through routes linking Askira-Uba, Chibok, Michika and Damboa.
A senior officer described him as “a critical link in the illicit pipeline that keeps these groups supplied with narcotics.”
During the operation, soldiers recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis worth more than ₦1 million and 43 grams of crystal meth valued at over ₦3 million.
They also found two military camouflage T-shirts in his possession. Security sources suggested that he allegedly used the outfits to avoid suspicion while delivering the drugs.
“He tried to blend in during movements, but that tactic failed today,” a military source said.
Furthermore, authorities confirmed that a preliminary investigation has already been completed.
The seized items are expected to be transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Yola for continued interrogation and prosecution.
The arrest adds to ongoing pressure on extremist supply lines, a strategy officials believe weakens the operational capabilities of armed groups and limits their influence across the region.