Date: June 28, 2026 l Reporter: Kingston Nwosu
BORNO, Nigeria — Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a suspected operative of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) who was allegedly gathering intelligence for planned attacks on two military formations in Borno State, in what security officials describe as a significant breakthrough in ongoing counter-insurgency operations.
According to military sources, the suspect, identified as Muhammad Shuaibu, was apprehended by personnel of the 212 Battalion stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Chabbol after credible intelligence suggested that insurgents were preparing to launch coordinated assaults on military positions in the area.
The arrest reportedly occurred during a routine perimeter patrol conducted approximately 500 metres ahead of the base's anti-vehicle defensive ditch. Security officials said the operation followed actionable human intelligence warning of an imminent terrorist threat against the military installations.
Preliminary investigations reportedly linked the suspect to a planned attack targeting the 199 Special Forces Battalion, widely known as Mosquito Camp, as well as the Forward Operating Base Chabbol. Authorities believe the suspect was collecting intelligence that could assist insurgents in planning and executing the assaults.
Military sources indicated that during interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted that an attack had been planned and claimed that the insurgents intended to continue with the operation regardless of his arrest. Security agencies have not independently disclosed additional details about the alleged confession as investigations continue.
Following the arrest, troops immediately strengthened security around the identified military formations by reinforcing defensive positions and increasing surveillance in anticipation of any possible retaliatory action. Officials say the rapid response was aimed at preventing any surprise attack and safeguarding personnel and strategic assets.
The suspect has since been transferred to the 7 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation and possible prosecution. Authorities say intelligence obtained from the ongoing investigation could assist in identifying additional members of the insurgent network and disrupting future operations.
The development highlights the Nigerian military's continued reliance on intelligence-driven operations in its campaign against insurgent groups operating across the North-East. Operation Hadin Kai has intensified surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeted operations in recent months as security forces seek to dismantle terrorist cells and prevent attacks on both military and civilian targets.
Security analysts note that arrests based on actionable intelligence remain a critical component of counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in Borno State, where ISWAP and other extremist groups continue to pose significant security challenges despite sustained military offensives.
While the arrest represents a tactical success for security forces, authorities have urged residents in affected communities to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to combat insurgency across the region.