Military Detains 3 Alleged ISWAP Recruiters in Banki

Military Detains 3 Alleged ISWAP Recruiters in Banki

Personnel from Operation Hadin Kai have taken three individuals into custody in Banki, Borno State, on suspicion of acting as recruitment operatives for the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Insiders informed Zagazola Makama that the arrests took place on January 17, triggered by a lead provided by the District Head of Banki.

According to reports, intelligence agents conducted a secret sting operation in the town, where they intercepted the trio as they were allegedly preparing to transport young recruits for insurgent training.

“The apprehended individuals—Gajibo Kayama (23), Tahiru Modu (22), and Bulama Modu (24)—are believed to be targeting youths between 17 and 20 years old in Banki for ISWAP factions based in Adamawa State,” a source revealed.

Initial inquiries suggest that the men were previously affiliated with ISWAP and had claimed to have renounced their membership five years prior, yet they were reportedly caught returning to their former roles as recruiters.

“The suspects were caught in the act of organizing and mobilizing local youths for transport to training camps in Adamawa State,” the source further explained.

The detainees have been transferred to the Military Intelligence Regiment, where they will undergo comprehensive questioning and further legal processing.