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 enter a terrorist-held enclave near the Mandara Mountains in Borno State.
Intelligence sources said the woman, identified as Aisha Idrisa, was arrested at about 3:50 p.m. on July 4, 2026, by troops conducting picketing duties 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.
At the time of her arrest, Aisha was accompanied by her two-year-old child, Musbahu Christopher.
Items recovered from the suspect included an Itel mobile phone, an extra battery, and personal clothing. During preliminary questioning, Aisha reportedly told troops that she was heading to her farm.
However, intelligence gathered by the troops suggested that she was attempting to gain access to a terrorist enclave, leading to her arrest for further investigation.
She is currently in the custody of the 26 Task Force Brigade for interrogation and other necessary actions.
Security sources said the interception was part of ongoing efforts by Operation HADIN KAI to restrict movement along routes used by insurgents and their collaborators, particularly around the Mandara Mountains, where troops have continued clearance and surveillance operations.
