Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested 14 suspected collaborators of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) along an illegal route in Yobe State.

The arrests were made during a patrol and stop-and-search operation conducted by troops along known smuggling and illegal movement routes in the North-East.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt logistics, supply and support networks for terrorist groups operating in the region.

According to security sources, the suspects were intercepted while moving along the illegal route and are believed to have been providing support services to ISWAP fighters operating in Yobe and surrounding areas.

The troops also recovered items believed to be intended for the terrorist group, though details of the recoveries have not been officially disclosed.

The suspects have been taken into custody for further investigation and profiling. The military said the investigation will determine the extent of their collaboration and connections with ISWAP.

The arrest comes amid intensified operations by the Nigerian military across the North-East to deny terrorists freedom of movement, cut off their supply lines and restore peace in communities affected by insurgency.

The Defence Headquarters has said it will sustain the operations to ensure security of lives and property in the region.