The Nigerian Navy has apprehended a suspected terrorist collaborator identified as Baba Saidu Abdullahi in the Lake Chad region, utilizing advanced drone surveillance technology. The arrest was announced by the Director of Naval Information, Captain AA Folorunsho, in a statement released on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
Surveillance Operation Details
According to the statement, naval personnel detected the suspect during an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) mission in the area. The suspect was observed moving from a location previously identified as a terrorist hideout. Further monitoring revealed interactions between him and armed terrorist elements before he departed the area.
Suspect's Activities
Investigations indicated that Abdullahi frequently traveled between Dumba and Baga Town and allegedly maintained contact with terrorist elements operating within the region. The Nigerian Navy noted that this operation marks another success in the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign in the North East.
The arrest was made on June 1, 2026, during an ISR mission conducted by personnel of Naval Base Lake Chad (NBLC) using a tactical drone within the Lake Chad area of operations. During the mission, naval personnel observed a suspicious individual later identified as Baba Saidu Abdullahi moving from a location where terrorist elements had earlier been sighted.
Real-Time Tracking and Apprehension
The suspect was tracked in real time from the Dumba axis to the vicinity of Charlie Company, 196 Amphibious Battalion, where he was subsequently apprehended. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect frequently moved between Dumba and Baga Town and allegedly maintained contact with terrorist elements operating within the area.
Initial findings further suggested that he was involved in providing logistical support to the terrorists through the procurement and movement of essential supplies. A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of personal effects and other items considered relevant to ongoing investigations.
Handover and Ongoing Investigations
Following preliminary interrogation, the suspect was handed over to the appropriate military authorities for further investigation and necessary action in accordance with established procedures. The operation underscores the growing role of intelligence, surveillance, and technology-driven operations in enhancing situational awareness and supporting ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in the Lake Chad region.
The Nigerian Navy remains committed to supporting joint operations under Operation HADIN KAI and will continue to deploy available assets and capabilities to deny terrorist elements freedom of action while contributing to the restoration of peace and security in the North East.
