Three Women Arrested in Suspected Terror Collaboration as troops detain suspects at a Borno IDP camp over alleged terrorist links

Troops of the 222 Battalion under Operation Hadin Kai have arrested three women at an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State over allegations of collaborating with terrorist elements and facilitating movements into insurgent-controlled territories.

The women, identified as Aisha Mustapha, 19, Astakawu Bura, 23, and Zarah Bukar, 50, were apprehended following intelligence-led operations that reportedly uncovered ongoing contacts between the suspects and individuals linked to terrorist groups operating in the region.

According to an operational report released by military authorities, the arrests followed intelligence gathering and lawful communication intercepts that indicated attempts to facilitate movement to a terrorist enclave within Borno State.

“The women have been taken into military custody and are assisting investigators,” the report stated.

Military officials said the operation forms part of a broader campaign aimed at disrupting terrorist support networks and preventing insurgent infiltration within displacement camps and surrounding host communities.

The arrests highlight the continuing security challenges facing north-eastern Nigeria despite sustained military offensives against insurgent groups.

Authorities have repeatedly warned that terrorist organisations increasingly rely on informal support structures, including logistics providers, informants and facilitators, to sustain operations.

Konduga Local Government Area has remained one of the focal points of counter-insurgency efforts due to its proximity to areas previously affected by attacks from extremist groups.

Over the years, security forces have conducted multiple operations in and around the area to prevent the resurgence of insurgent activities.

The latest development follows a series of recent military successes in Borno State.

In recent weeks, security agencies reported airstrikes against terrorist enclaves and the arrest of several individuals suspected of supporting insurgent operations through the supply of goods, intelligence and other forms of assistance.

While the allegations against the three women remain under investigation, security analysts note that disrupting support networks is considered a critical component of efforts to weaken terrorist groups and improve safety for displaced communities.

The arrests are likely to intensify security screening measures within camps housing thousands of internally displaced persons across the region.

Authorities have maintained that such measures are necessary to protect vulnerable populations and preserve the gains achieved through ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

As investigations continue, military officials have not disclosed whether additional suspects are being sought in connection with the case.