Military Arrests Chinese National In Borno Terror Operation

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the arrest of a Chinese national during a counter-terrorism operation carried out by Nigerian troops in Borno State.

The suspect, whose identity has not been made public, claimed to be a miner. However, he is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation to determine the circumstances surrounding his presence in an area of ongoing military operations.

This incident comes just days after the military disclosed the arrest of four Pakistani nationals in the region, who were allegedly involved in training terrorist elements.

Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Friday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, revealed that five terrorist logistics suppliers and collaborators were also apprehended during coordinated military operations conducted between June 5 and 7, 2025, in Kukawa and Ngala Local Government Areas of Borno State, as well as Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State.

“In addition to the arrest of five terrorist logistics suppliers and collaborators, our troops detained a Chinese national claiming to be a miner,” Kangye said. “Items recovered from the suspects include a vehicle, a motorcycle, several mobile phones, a Chinese international passport, and the sum of ₦10,000.”

Kangye raised questions about the foreign national’s presence in a high-risk operational zone.

“Whenever individuals are arrested, especially foreigners, they often deny involvement in illicit activities,” he said. “But we must ask: what was he doing in an area where military operations were ongoing?”

He assured that a full investigation is in progress to uncover the suspect’s motives and any potential connections to terrorist groups.

“The Chinese national remains in custody and is being thoroughly interrogated. Once investigations are complete, we will provide comprehensive details—including how and why he was found there, and whether he was acting alone or in concert with others,” Kangye added.

Addressing allegations that military forces are slow to respond to distress calls during attacks, particularly in remote communities, Kangye rejected such claims as inaccurate.

“Such assertions are misleading,” he said. “People must understand that our troops are not stationed in every village. In some cases, incidents happen 10 to 15 kilometres from the nearest military post.”

He explained that operational logistics—such as identifying the appropriate unit, assigning commanders, and preparing vehicles and supplies—affect response times.

“It’s similar to a hospital treating patients based on the severity of their conditions. If you’re not aware of internal priorities, you might feel overlooked. But it doesn’t mean no action is being taken,” he emphasized.

Kangye reiterated that all distress calls are treated seriously and assured the public of the military’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and neutralizing threats.

“Let’s not be quick to accuse our troops of delays,” he said. “They are operating under extremely challenging conditions and are doing their utmost to respond whenever called upon.”