Troops Arrest ISWAP Members Posing As Tailors In Plateau, Bauchi
Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN have arrested two members of the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) who were posing as tailors in a bid to establish a terrorist cell in Plateau State.
The suspects, Abdulkadir Dalhatu and Ubaidu Hassan, both aged 25, were apprehended in Yelwa, Shendam Local Government Area during a joint intelligence-led operation by troops of the Forward Operating Base Shendam.
“Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspects were part of an ISWAP cell tasked with establishing bases in Plateau and Bauchi states under the directive of an ISWAP commander,” said OPSH spokesperson, Major Samson Zakhom.
“They had been using the guise of tailoring to further the group’s agenda in the area.”
He disclosed that the suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further interrogation, adding that they would be prosecuted in accordance with Nigerian law.
In a separate operation on April 11, troops of Sector 4 OPSH raided a criminal hideout in Mazat Village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
Although the main suspect managed to escape, troops recovered an AK-47 rifle with registration number 23402 and a magazine during a search of the premises.
“The recovered weapons have been secured. Efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspect and recover additional arms are ongoing,” Zakhom said.
On April 12, troops of Sector 2 OPSH conducted a successful ambush along the Pinau-Bangalala Road in Wase Local Government Area.
“Acting on credible intelligence, the troops made contact with the bandits. One bandit was neutralised, while others fled the scene, possibly with gunshot wounds,” Zakhom revealed.
“A fabricated pistol was recovered during the follow-up operation.”
He attributed the recent successes to cooperation between the military and residents of the affected communities.
“Our operations have been largely successful due to the timely and accurate intelligence provided by the public.
“We urge continued support and vigilance from residents to help us combat these security threats effectively.”
Operation SAFE HAVEN is a military task force responsible for tackling terrorism, banditry, and communal violence in Plateau and neighbouring states.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
