By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
A suspected foreign terrorist believed to be a Moroccan national has been arrested by troops of Operation HADIN KAI following a failed ISWAP attack on Cross Kauwa in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
Military sources disclosed that the suspect was apprehended during follow-up exploitation operations conducted in Abadam Local Government Area along the Lake Chad Islands Corridor after fleeing the scene of the failed assault.
According to the sources, the arrest followed a meticulous intelligence and forensic investigation carried out by Nigerian security agencies in collaboration with international partners.
The suspect was reportedly identified through video footage recovered from a Sony camcorder seized during the Cross Kauwa operation, where troops successfully repelled an attempted ISWAP attack on a military position.
The camcorder was recovered after troops neutralized an ISWAP cameraman who was among the terrorists involved in the operation.
Sources said forensic analysis of the footage and other intelligence materials enabled security operatives to identify the suspect and track his movements before his eventual arrest.
The foreign national is currently undergoing intensive interrogation and intelligence exploitation as authorities seek to unravel his role within the terrorist network and establish possible links to international extremist groups.
Military officials described the arrest as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle ISWAP’s operational structure and foreign support network operating within the Lake Chad Basin.
The development further strengthens intelligence assessments suggesting that foreign fighters continue to play active roles within the ranks of terrorist groups operating in Nigeria’s North-East.
Authorities said additional details concerning the suspect’s identity and activities would be released after investigations are concluded and subject to operational considerations.
During the exploitation operations, troops also recovered High Frequency Handheld Radios and other communication equipment abandoned by fleeing terrorists as they retreated under sustained military pressure.
The recovered items are expected to provide valuable intelligence that could aid ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the region.
The arrest comes days after troops successfully thwarted a coordinated ISWAP attack on Cross Kauwa on the night of July 11.
Security sources revealed that the terrorists had attempted to infiltrate the community to loot cholera treatment drugs and other medical supplies while carrying out propaganda activities through their media operatives.
The military’s swift response not only foiled the attack but also resulted in the neutralization of several terrorists and the recovery of operational materials.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist elements across the North-East and the broader Lake Chad region.
They emphasized that intelligence-led operations remain central to ongoing efforts aimed at denying terrorists freedom of movement and dismantling their support structures.
Residents were also encouraged to continue providing credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations and enhance national security.
The latest success underscores the determination of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace and stability to affected communities across the country.
