Two individuals, including a bomb-making expert thought to have crucial insights into the group’s operations and bomb and logistics network, were apprehended by troops participating in Operation Hadin Kai. The individuals were believed to be senior members of the Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP.
The two rebels reportedly surrendered to the 159 Battalion on June 8 in Geidam, Yobe State, according to military officials.
For the security troops fighting rebels in the Lake Chad region, this represents a major victory over Boko Haram and ISWAP.
Ismail Mohammed and Abu Umar are the names of the rebels who reportedly surrendered, according to sources.
Abu Umar is said by military sources to be a famous ISWAP engineer who focuses on car bombs and other Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs).
Based on what we know from our sources, terrorist organisations rely heavily on improvised explosive device (IED) specialists to carry out high-profile attacks on military targets, civilian areas, and critical infrastructure.
The sources claim that these people could provide crucial information that helps security authorities find terrorists’ bomb factories, storage facilities, training camps, and logistical lines.
Ismail Mohammed, the second terrorist to surrender, is said to be one of the commanders associated with the notorious Baa Shuwa axis in the Timbuktu Triangle. This region has long been considered a key bastion for the militants in the north-east.
Given that terrorist groups in the North-East have traditionally used Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices as one of their most devastating weapons, Abu Umar’s surrender is very notable.
Multiple public locations, including military sites, marketplaces, and houses of worship, have been the targets of VBIED strikes, which have caused heavy damage and casualties.