Troops intercept woman and 2-year-old child allegedly heading to terrorist enclave in Borno

Troops of the 26 Task Force Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI have intercepted a 20-year-old woman and her two-year-old child while she was allegedly attempting to make her way into a terrorist-held enclave near the Mandara Mountains in Borno State.

Intelligence sources said that the woman, identified as Aisha Idrisa, was arrested at about 3:50 p.m. on July 4, 2026 by troops conducting picketing duty along the Gwoza–Pulka Road.

The sources said she was intercepted near the foothills of the Mandara Mountains, an area known to harbour remnants of terrorist groups operating along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.

She was accompanied by her two-year-old child, Musbahu Christopher, at the time of the arrest.

Items recovered from the suspect included an Itel mobile phone, an extra battery, and some personal clothing.

During preliminary questioning, Aisha reportedly claimed that she was heading to her farm. 

However, intelligence available to the troops suggested she was attempting to gain access to a terrorist enclave, prompting her arrest for further investigation.

She is currently in the custody of the 26 Task Force Brigade for further interrogation and other necessary actions.

Security sources said the interception forms part of ongoing efforts by Operation HADIN KAI to block movement routes used by insurgents and their collaborators, particularly around the Mandara Mountains, where troops have sustained clearance and surveillance operations.

They added that while the overall security situation across the theatre remains relatively calm, it is still unpredictable, with troops maintaining a high level of vigilance and operational readiness.