The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed the arrest of a Chinese national during a military counter-terrorism operation in Borno State, raising concerns about possible foreign involvement in the country’s ongoing insurgency.
According to the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, the individual, who claimed to be a miner, was apprehended during a series of coordinated military operations between June 5 and 7 in Kukawa and Ngala local government areas of Borno State, as well as Geidam in Yobe State. The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation.
The arrest comes just days after the military disclosed that four Pakistani nationals had been detained in the same region, allegedly for providing training to terrorists.
While the identity of the Chinese national has not been released, Kangye questioned the legitimacy of the man’s presence in an active conflict zone. “What brought him there at the time of arrest?” Kangye asked during a press briefing in Abuja. “Why was he in an operational area where our troops were conducting counter-terrorism missions?”
In addition to the Chinese suspect, five alleged logistics suppliers and collaborators linked to terrorist groups were also arrested. Items recovered during the operations include a vehicle, motorcycle, several mobile phones, a Chinese international passport, and ₦10,000 in cash.
Kangye assured the public that investigations are ongoing to determine the suspect’s true intentions and any potential affiliations with insurgent groups. “Once the investigation is complete, we will provide full details—how he was arrested, why he was there, and whether he had accomplices,” he said.
Responding to criticism that troops are often slow to respond to distress calls in remote areas, Kangye defended the military’s efforts, citing logistical challenges and vast terrain as key factors. “People must understand our troops are not stationed in every village,” he explained.
“Before deploying to a location, a unit must be mobilized, a commander designated, and vehicles and supplies secured. That takes time,” he said, comparing the situation to a hospital triaging multiple patients with limited resources.
Kangye reaffirmed the military’s commitment to addressing all distress calls and protecting citizens. “Our troops are operating under extremely difficult conditions, but I can assure you—they respond when called upon,” he concluded.
