Troops Arrest Suspected ISWAP Spy Over Alleged Plot to Attack Borno Military Bases

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a suspected operative of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) over an alleged plan to attack two military formations in Borno State.

According to military sources, the suspect, identified as Muhammad Shuaibu, was arrested by troops of the 212 Battalion at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Chabbol following intelligence indicating preparations for a terrorist attack.

The suspect was reportedly apprehended during a routine perimeter patrol conducted about 500 metres from the anti-vehicle ditch protecting the military base.

Security sources said the operation was launched after the military received credible human intelligence suggesting that insurgents were planning coordinated attacks on military positions in the area.

Preliminary investigations reportedly linked Shuaibu to an alleged plot targeting the 199 Special Forces Battalion, popularly known as Mosquito Camp, and the Forward Operating Base in Chabbol.

Military sources further claimed that during interrogation, the suspect admitted knowledge of the planned operation and allegedly told investigators that the attackers intended to proceed with the mission regardless of his arrest.

The military said the intelligence obtained following the arrest enabled troops to strengthen security around the identified formations and reinforce defensive measures against any attempted attack.

The suspect has since been handed over to the 7 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation.

The arrest forms part of ongoing intelligence-led counter-insurgency operations by Operation Hadin Kai, aimed at disrupting terrorist activities, dismantling insurgent networks and protecting military formations across Nigeria's North-East.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement confirming the arrest or providing additional details on the investigation.