*Photo: Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi*
The Nigerian Army’s Operation HADIN KAI has cleared a camel rearer who was earlier intercepted and suspected of terrorism links, stating that thorough investigations found no evidence connecting him to any terrorist group.
In a statement issued on Thursday, 23 July 2026, the military clarified the status of Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi.
The individual was apprehended by troops of 68 Battalion during an exploitation operation following an attack at Cross Kauwa.
According to the statement, troops acted in line with established operational procedures amid heightened security concerns, particularly the exploitation of border corridors by terrorist elements for movement and logistics. He was taken into custody for profiling and further investigation.
“Comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes did not establish that the individual has any affiliation to any known terrorist group,” the statement read.
Investigations confirmed that Zein-Nur is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger, and engages in camel rearing beyond the River Komadougou.
Operation HADIN KAI, with Headquarters in Maiduguri, Borno State, has consequently cleared him of any terrorist links and released him.
The Theatre Command emphasised that all persons intercepted under suspicious circumstances undergo due process and appropriate security screening to separate innocent civilians from terrorist elements.
The military reiterated its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.