Nigerian troops capture Chinese national, other terrorists’ collaborators during major operation

A Chinese national, claiming to be a miner, has been arrested alongside several terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers during military operations in Borno and Yobe States, the Defence Headquarters has announced.

The arrest was part of intensified counter-terrorism operations conducted by troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), according to Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, who briefed reporters Friday in Abuja.

Kangye disclosed that the Chinese citizen was apprehended in coordinated raids targeting terrorist elements in Kukawa and Ngala Local Government Areas of Borno State.

“The Chinese national has been detained and he is undergoing interrogation,” he said.

“When the interrogation is completed, we will be able to furnish the public with the details of why he was there in the first place, how he was arrested, whether he was the only one there, or he had accomplices.

“All this will be unfolded after thorough investigation has been carried out,” he added.

The defence spokesperson also revealed that between June 6 and 11, a significant number of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, including men, women, and children, surrendered to military forces amid intensified combat operations.

According to Kangye, the armed forces have ramped up pressure in all operational theatres to tackle the country’s diverse security threats.

He reiterated the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring a stable and secure environment for all Nigerians.

“We remain dedicated to transparency and will keep the public informed of our ongoing efforts to ensure the stability and security of our great nation,” he stated.