Two journalists working for the global news network, Al jazeera, Ahmed Idris and Mustafa Andy, were on Wednesday arrested by the Nigerian military in Maiduguri, Borno State for loitering in areas where combat operations were being carried out.
According to a statement issued by the Defence Headquarters, the journalists were moving around “restricted areas” in Yobe and Borno States without protection, accreditation or clearance.
The military stated that the Al jazeera staffers, who were monitored by intelligence operatives, were eventually restrained to their hotel rooms in Maiduguri following increased suspicion that their activities were focused on interfering with ongoing military operations in those areas.
“The motive, activities and some materials in possession of these individuals are now being investigated,” the military said.
Last year, the Nigerian military had cautioned newshounds against unauthorized movements in the states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe where it is fighting the Boko Haram extremist sect.
The defence headquarters maintained on Wednesday that the restriction still stands until reversed, while appropriate arrangements will be made to assist adequately cleared journalists to report on activities in the area under military operation “within the limits of adequate safety, security and necessary procedures”.
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