Troops of the Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have arrested a 65-year-old woman, Hauwa Abulazeez, for allegedly delivering cannabis sativa to Boko Haram terrorists.

Sani Uba, the spokesperson for the OPHK, North-East, said in a statement on Sunday that Ms Abdulazeez, who allegedly sourced the illicit substance from the Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area of Taraba State, was arrested in the Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State on Friday.

Mr Uba said the troops, under Operation Desert Sanity V, also recovered illicit substances during the arrest on Friday.

“The suspect is alleged to be one of the suppliers of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram terrorist elements operating through Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu, and Gaya, and a key conduit in the distribution of the substance across several communities within the theatre,” he said.

“During the operation, 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, with an estimated total weight of approximately 30 kilogrammes, were recovered, representing a significant interception intended to sustain illicit activities.

“The suspect is currently in custody, undergoing preliminary investigation, while follow-up actions are ongoing to identify and dismantle the wider network involved in the trafficking and distribution of the substance,” Mr Uba stated.

He said the interception underscores the broader impact of denying illicit supply chains that fuel violence, criminality, and instability.

Mr Uba noted that network disruptions contribute to improved security conditions, reduced criminal influence, and the reinforcement of law and order across the region.

He restated the troops’ commitment to eliminating all forms of criminality across the region.