The Nigerian military has cleared a man earlier detained during operations following the terrorist attack on Cross Kauwa in Borno State, saying investigations found no evidence linking him to any terrorist group.
In a statement made available to The News Chronicle on Thursday, Operation HADIN KAI said the individual, identified as Aboubakar Muhammad Zein-Nur, also known as Houdairi, was intercepted by troops of the 68 Battalion during an exploitation operation launched after the attack.
The Theatre Command explained that the arrest was carried out in line with standard operational procedures, citing the persistent use of border routes by terrorist groups for movement and logistics.
However, after what it described as comprehensive intelligence assessments and other investigative processes, the military said Zein-Nur was found to have no ties to any terrorist organisation.
According to the statement, investigations established that he is a resident of Shattu Anguba Village in Bosso, Republic of Niger, and earns a living as a camel rearer operating beyond the River Komadougou.
“Operation HADIN KAI has consequently cleared the individual of any terrorist links,” the statement said.
The command stressed that all persons intercepted under suspicious circumstances during military operations undergo thorough profiling and security screening to distinguish innocent civilians from terrorist elements.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations against insurgents while adhering to professionalism, respect for human rights and the rule of law.
