Boko Haram commander, three fighters, woman surrender to troops in Borno

A commander of the Boko Haram-linked Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction, three fighters and a woman have surrendered to Nigerian Army troops operating in Borno State.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the five individuals surrendered to troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade under Operations Hadin Kai and Desert Sanity V in the Kumburi general area of Bama Local Government Area.

The surrender reportedly followed an intense clash between rival JAS and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, as well as sustained intelligence-driven military operations in the area.

A military Special Situation Report obtained by Makama said the group surrendered at about 11pm on Friday, August 21.

The JAS commander was identified as Ishiaku Agah, while the three fighters were named Sulieman Yaga, Iburija Chari and Ba’ana Modu. The woman was identified as Falmata Modu.

The group reportedly arrived from the Bula Daloye area before surrendering to the troops.

The military said troops recovered 358 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition from the group.

The surrendered individuals and recovered ammunition have been taken into custody for further action, while troops continue to monitor the area for other fighters willing to lay down their arms.

The development comes amid renewed clashes between JAS and ISWAP factions in parts of Borno, with security sources saying the fighting, coupled with sustained military operations, has increased pressure on terrorist fighters and their support networks.

The military said the general security situation across the theatre remained “calm but unpredictable,” adding that troops maintained satisfactory morale and fighting efficiency.