Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, operating alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have arrested a suspected operative of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Mairari town, Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State. The suspect, identified as Bubba Hamadu, 25, was taken into custody at approximately 2:22 p.m. on Monday, August 24, 2026, by troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mairari with the support of CJTF members.
Interrogation and Discovery of Incriminating Evidence
According to sources, the suspect was subjected to preliminary interrogation immediately following his arrest. During the process, security personnel reportedly discovered a photograph on his mobile phone showing the suspect alongside unidentified individuals carrying AK-47 rifles. This discovery raised suspicion about the suspect’s possible links with ISWAP elements operating within the area.
Items recovered from Hamadu included one Tecno mobile phone, an umbrella, an arrow, prayer beads, a mirror, and an eye drop. The military stated that Hamadu has been transferred into the custody of Headquarters Sector 3, Operation Hadin Kai, for further investigation and necessary action.
Ongoing Intelligence-Led Operations in the Lake Chad Basin
The arrest forms part of ongoing intelligence-led operations by troops and local security partners aimed at identifying and disrupting terrorist networks operating within the Lake Chad Basin. Security forces have continued to rely on community-based intelligence, patrols, and targeted arrests to identify suspected terrorists and facilitators in areas affected by insurgency.
The military said the general security situation across the theatre remained calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remained satisfactory.
