Troops Arrest Three ISWAP Recruiters in Banki Over Youth Mobilisation Drive
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested three suspected recruitment agents of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Banki town, Borno State, for allegedly mobilising youths for terrorist training.
The suspects were apprehended on January 17 during a covert operation launched after credible intelligence indicated that some individuals were actively recruiting young men for insurgent activities in the area.
Security sources disclosed that intelligence operatives were discreetly deployed to Banki, where they caught the suspects in the act of recruiting youths between the ages of 17 and 20. The recruits were reportedly being prepared for onward movement to Adamawa State, where they were expected to undergo terrorist training.
Those arrested were identified as Gajibo Kayama, 23; Tahiru Modu, 22; and Bulama Modu, 24. Preliminary investigations revealed that the trio were former ISWAP members who claimed to have renounced the group about five years ago but were allegedly involved again in recruitment activities.
Following their arrest, the suspects were handed over to the Military Intelligence Regiment for thorough interrogation and further necessary action.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to dismantling terrorist recruitment networks and preventing the radicalisation of youths, while also commending local community leaders for providing timely intelligence that aided the successful operation.
COMMENTS