Two commanders of the Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP, including a suspected vehicle borne improvised explosive device specialist, have surrendered to Nigerian Army troops under Operation Hadin Kai in Yobe State.
A military operational report obtained on Thursday in Abuja revealed that the suspects, identified as Ismail Mohammed and Abu Umar, turned themselves in to troops of the 159 Battalion in Geidam on June 8.
The report stated that Ismail Mohammed was a field commander operating under a terrorist leader known as Baa Shuwa and was believed to have deep knowledge of the group’s operations and structure.
It also noted that Abu Umar served as an engineer within the group and specialised in the production and handling of vehicle borne improvised explosive devices. He was said to have detailed knowledge of locations where such explosives were manufactured and stored within ISWAP camps. Both men are currently in military custody as investigations continue.
In a related development, troops also arrested two suspected informants linked to terrorist activities during separate operations in Borno State.
According to the report, a combined team of the 19 Battalion, 25 Brigade Garrison, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force apprehended one suspect in Damboa town on June 9. He was reportedly caught while purchasing farm supplies and mosquito nets believed to be intended for delivery to terrorist elements operating in the area.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect had been providing logistics support and intelligence to the group. He remains in custody at the Headquarters of 25 Brigade for further questioning.
On the same day, troops of the 162 Amphibious Battalion also arrested another suspected informant at about 7 pm, with the suspect currently being held for further investigation.
The military further reported that troops successfully foiled an attempted terrorist attack on a military position after sighting suspected fighters approaching the area on June 9. Fire missions were immediately launched to repel the attackers and prevent them from gaining ground.
Following clearance operations on June 10, troops recovered the remains of two suspected terrorists alongside a motorcycle. Preliminary findings suggested the individuals may have been killed during an earlier encounter in the Buni Yadi axis, as their bodies were already in a state of decomposition.
