The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the arrest of a Chinese national during a recent counter-terrorism operation in Borno State, raising fresh questions about foreign involvement in Nigeria’s prolonged insurgency.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, disclosed the arrest at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday.
He said the foreigner, who claimed to be a miner, was picked up by troops of Operation Hadin Kai during a targeted sweep of terror hotspots in Kukawa and Ngala Local Government Areas.
“The Chinese national has been detained and is currently undergoing intense interrogation,” Kangye stated, adding that investigations are ongoing to determine his true mission in the region and whether he was complicit in aiding Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters.
“This is part of broader operations that led to the arrest of several individuals suspected of providing logistics and other forms of support to terrorist groups,” he noted.
While authorities remain tight-lipped on the identity of the foreigner and possible charges, Kangye hinted that more revelations would emerge upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
“We will update Nigerians on whether he acted alone or had accomplices. The circumstances of his arrest suggest more than just illegal mining activities,” he said.
The military also reported significant gains in the fight against insurgency, revealing that a large number of Boko Haram and ISWAP members—comprising men, women, and children—surrendered between June 6 and June 11, following increased troop presence and pressure in Borno State.
“This reflects the impact of our intensified operations across the theatre of conflict,” Kangye stated.
“Our forces are not relenting. We remain committed to dismantling all terror networks and restoring peace to troubled regions.”
He reaffirmed the military’s resolve to protect the sovereignty of Nigeria and ensure the safety of all citizens, while pledging continued transparency in military operations.
“Our duty is to protect lives and property, uphold the rule of law, and foster national security. We will continue to keep the public informed as we progress.”
The presence of foreign nationals in terror-ravaged zones has long raised concerns about international complicity in Nigeria’s insecurity.
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