The Nigerian Army has cleared a Niger Republic resident earlier reported as a terror suspect after investigations found no link between him and any terrorist group.
Operation HADIN KAI announced the clarification in a statement issued on Thursday by its Acting Military Information Officer, Captain Mohammed Goni, explaining the outcome of investigations into an individual intercepted by troops during an exploitation operation that followed the attack on Cross Kauwa.
The military identified the individual as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi, saying he was taken into custody by troops of the 68 Battalion because of the security situation around border communities, where terrorist groups have been known to move personnel and supplies through crossing routes.
Captain Goni said the troops acted in line with operational procedures by placing the man under custody for profiling and further investigation.
He said, “Comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes did not establish that the individual has any affiliation to any known terrorist group.”
The statement said investigators established that Zein-Nur is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger, and earns a living by rearing camels beyond the River Komadougou.
Operation HADIN KAI said it has cleared the man of all terrorist links, stressing that anyone intercepted under suspicious circumstances during military operations is subjected to security screening and due process to separate innocent civilians from terrorist elements.
The Theatre Command said, “Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in denying terrorists freedom of action while upholding the highest standards of professionalism, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.”