ISWAP kills CJTF member in Borno as troops nab suspected gunrunner in Taraba

A member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Borno State has reportedly been killed by terrorists belonging to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama revealed the incident on Thursday, sharing an image of the victim on his X account.

While details of the attack remain unclear, relevant authorities have yet to issue a statement regarding the killing.

In a separate development, troops from the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have apprehended a suspected gunrunner, Adamu Usman, in Taraba State.

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The suspect was arrested on January 13, 2025, during a coordinated operation at his residence in Maraban Gassol, Gassol Local Government Area. A fabricated submachine gun was recovered during a search of his property, following credible intelligence linking him to arms trafficking.

Brig.-Gen. Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade, confirmed the arrest in a statement. He praised the troops for their professionalism and highlighted the brigade’s dedication to curbing the spread of illegal arms and ensuring peace in Taraba.

“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to safeguard lives and restore normalcy in all parts of Taraba and beyond,” Uwa said.