Troops Capture Alleged ISWAP Collaborator in Borno, Uncover Ammunition Sales
In a significant security operation, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have apprehended a suspected collaborator of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'adati wal-Jihad (JAS) terrorists in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State. The arrest occurred at approximately 5:35 p.m. on March 27, 2026, and was carried out by a joint force comprising troops from the 25 Brigade and 19 Battalion (Mobile), alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
Details of the Suspect and Arrest
The suspect, a native of Gwalki village in the Kafa area of Damboa LGA, currently resides at the Hausari Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Maiduguri. According to a military source, the individual is alleged to have been actively collaborating with ISWAP/JAS elements operating within the Damboa general area. During preliminary investigations, the suspect claimed to be part of a hybrid force and identified as a repentant terrorist, but this assertion was later contradicted by his own confession.
Confession and Further Investigations
The suspect admitted to involvement in the sale of ammunition to terrorist elements in the Timbuktu Triangle, a known hotspot for insurgent activities. He revealed that this illicit activity was facilitated through an accomplice identified as Konto Fatima, who is said to be residing at the Aburi IDP camp. This confession has raised serious concerns about the infiltration of terrorist networks within IDP camps and the broader security challenges in the region.
Currently, the suspect is in military custody and undergoing further investigation to uncover additional details about his connections and activities. The military source emphasized that this arrest is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and enhance security in Borno State, which has been heavily affected by insurgency over the years.
Implications for Security Operations
This development underscores the persistent threat posed by ISWAP and JAS in northeastern Nigeria and highlights the critical role of joint military and civilian efforts in counter-terrorism operations. The collaboration between troops and the CJTF demonstrates a multi-faceted approach to addressing security challenges, leveraging local knowledge and resources to apprehend suspects and disrupt terrorist activities.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to pursue leads related to the accomplice and other potential collaborators, aiming to prevent further ammunition sales and strengthen border security in the area. The case also brings attention to the vulnerabilities within IDP camps, prompting calls for enhanced monitoring and support to prevent exploitation by terrorist groups.
