Troops of the Operation Hadin Kai Joint Task Force North-East (OPHK) have arrested three suspected recruitment agents of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Banki town, Bama LGA, Borno State.
According to sources, the suspects were apprehended on Saturday, January 17, 2027, following actionable intelligence from a prominent local resident. The operation was conducted covertly, leading to the capture of the suspects as they allegedly tried to recruit and transport young persons for terrorist training.
The arrested individuals were identified as Gajibo Kayama (23), Tahiru Modu (22), and Bulama Modu (24). Investigations indicate that they were targeting youths aged 17 to 20 in Banki town, intending to move them to Adamawa State for ISWAP training. The suspects were reportedly former ISWAP members who claimed to have repented about five years ago, but have allegedly returned to recruitment activities.
The suspects have since been handed over to the Military Intelligence Regiment for detailed interrogation and further action.
This arrest comes amid rising insecurity across Nigeria, despite the state of emergency on security declared by President Tinubu, with security forces continuing operations against kidnappers, terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups.
Banki town and its surrounding areas have long been vulnerable to ISWAP infiltration, with several youths previously coerced into militant activities. The recent arrests underscore the ongoing challenge faced by security agencies in preventing former militants from resuming terrorist operations.
