Troops Arrest Suspected ISWAP Operative In Borno

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a suspected operative of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) over an alleged plot to attack two military formations in Borno State.

The suspect, identified as Muhammad Shuaibu, was reportedly arrested by troops of the 212 Battalion at the Forward Operating Base, Chabbol, following intelligence on a planned terrorist attack.

A counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, Zagazola Makama, quoted military sources as saying Shuaibu was apprehended during a routine perimeter patrol about 500 metres from the anti-vehicle ditch protecting the base.

The publication said the arrest followed credible human intelligence on an impending attack.

Preliminary investigation reportedly linked the suspect to a planned assault on the 199 Special Forces Battalion, also known as Mosquito Camp, and the Forward Operating Base in Chabbol.

Military sources who spoke with Makama said the suspect admitted during interrogation that an attack had been planned, claiming the terrorists intended to proceed with the operation despite his arrest.

The military said the arrest enabled troops to reinforce security around the targeted formations and strengthen defensive measures against any attempted attack.

Shuaibu has been handed over to the 7 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation.

The arrest is part of ongoing intelligence-led operations by Operation Hadin Kai to disrupt terrorist activities and improve security across the North-East.