Troops of Sector 3, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK)/Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), have arrested two suspected logistics suppliers to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) during an intelligence-led operation in Monguno, Borno State. The arrest, which took place at approximately 4:30 p.m. on August 3, 2026, at the C-19 checkpoint in Monguno, followed sustained surveillance and intensified operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks.
Suspects Identified and Confessions Made
The suspects were identified as Bukar Kaka Modu, 30, and Abubakar Musa, 30. According to intelligence sources, the suspects allegedly confessed during preliminary interrogation that they were transporting food items and other supplies to ISWAP fighters in Kwatan Dowoshi Village in Kukawa Local Government Area. The confession underscores the ongoing efforts to dismantle the supply chains that sustain terrorist operations in the Lake Chad region.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama, citing intelligence sources, reported that the arrests were part of a broader operation to cut off ISWAP's access to essential goods and logistical support. The suspects were taken into custody at the Headquarters of Sector 3 for further investigation and necessary action.
Recovered Items and Gate Pass
Items recovered from the suspects included 11 cartons of biscuits, 192 sachets of biscuits, one carton of Peak milk, 10 mudu of sugar, nine bars of Viva soap, six headlamps, two bags of garri, 16 rolls of sachet garri, three packs of lighters, two Tecno button phones, one assault knife, one jazz belt, four jazz beads, six packs of herbal medicine, and N6,600 cash, among other sundry items.
Security sources also confirmed that troops recovered an alleged ISWAP-issued gate pass, believed to have been used to facilitate access to terrorist-controlled locations. This gate pass is a significant find, as it highlights the methods used by ISWAP to move supplies and personnel across checkpoints.
Ongoing Operations Against ISWAP Logistics
The latest arrest is part of ongoing efforts by Operation HADIN KAI to dismantle ISWAP’s logistics and supply networks, which security authorities consider critical to sustaining the terrorist group’s operations in the Lake Chad region. By targeting these networks, the military aims to weaken ISWAP's ability to launch attacks and maintain its presence in the area.
The suspects and the recovered exhibits have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation. This operation demonstrates the continued commitment of the Nigerian military and the MNJTF to combat terrorism and insurgency in the region.
