Troops of the Operation Hadin Kai Joint Task Force North-East (OPHK) have apprehended three suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) recruitment agents in Banki town, Bama Local Government Area, Borno State.
According to credible sources, the suspects were arrested on Saturday following a tip-off from a prominent Banki resident, whose name was withheld. The sources added that intelligence operatives carried out a covert operation in Banki, intercepting the suspects as they attempted to recruit and transport youths for terrorist training.
“They were identified as Gajibo Kayama, (23); Tahiru Modu, (22); and Bulama Modu, (24). They are suspected to be involved in the recruitment of youths aged between 17 and 20 from Banki town for ISWAP elements operating in Adamawa State,” the source said.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspects were ISWAP members who claimed to have repented about five years ago but were allegedly re-engaging in recruitment activities.
“They were arrested while trying to recruit and convey youths within Banki town for training in Adamawa State,” the source said. The source added that the suspects have since been handed over to the Military Intelligence Regiment for detailed interrogation and further action.