The Nigerian Army has arrested three suspected recruitment agents linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) during an intelligence-driven operation in Borno State, as part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the North-East.
Army sources confirmed on Tuesday that the suspects were apprehended by troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Banki, Bama Local Government Area, following actionable intelligence provided by members of the local community.
The suspects, whose identities were not immediately disclosed, were allegedly involved in recruiting young men for ISWAP, persuading and mobilising them to join insurgent camps operating within and outside Borno State.
Intelligence-Led Operation
According to security sources, the arrest followed weeks of surveillance after reports emerged that some individuals were secretly targeting vulnerable youths with promises of financial rewards and protection.
Troops were said to have moved swiftly to intercept the suspects during a covert operation, leading to their arrest without resistance.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly served as middle-level recruitment agents, responsible for identifying, indoctrinating and facilitating the movement of recruits to ISWAP enclaves.
Counter-Terrorism Efforts
Military authorities described the development as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing campaign to cut off ISWAP’s recruitment and logistics channels, which remain critical to the group’s survival.
Security experts note that while sustained military offensives have weakened insurgent strongholds, recruitment remains a key strategy used by terror groups to replenish their ranks.
The arrest, they said, underscores the importance of intelligence gathering and community collaboration in tackling terrorism.
Community Cooperation
The Army commended residents of the area for providing timely and credible information, stressing that civilian cooperation remains vital in the fight against insurgency.
“The role of communities in exposing criminal elements cannot be overstated. This arrest would not have been possible without local support,” a military source said.
Next Steps
The suspects have been handed over to relevant military intelligence units for further investigation and prosecution in line with extant laws.
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have continued clearance operations across Borno and neighbouring states, targeting insurgent hideouts, logistics routes and recruitment cells.
The Nigerian Army reassured citizens of its commitment to restoring lasting peace in the North-East and urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.