Plateau: Troops capture 2 suspected ISWAP members, neutralize bandit

Troops of Nigerian military under Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have apprehended two individuals suspected of being members of the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) during an anti-terror operation in Plateau State.

According to a statement released Saturday by Major Samson Zhakom, the Media Information Officer for OPSH, the arrests were made on April 11, 2025, during a planned raid carried out by troops of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Shendam. The operation targeted a suspected ISWAP cell situated around the Yelwa axis in Shendam Local Government Area.

“During the sting operation, 2 suspected ISWAP members identified as Abdulkadir Dalhatu 25 years-old and Ubaidu Hassan 25 years-old posing as tailors were arrested by troops,” Zhakom said.

He added: “Preliminary investigation revealed that the arrested suspects were mandated by ISWAP Commander to use the cover of tailoring to facilitate the establishment of ISWAP bases in Plateau and Bauchi States. The suspects are in custody for further action.”

In a separate operation on the same day, troops under Sector 4 of OPSH raided the hideout of a wanted criminal in Mazat Village, located in Barkin Ladi LGA. Although the suspect evaded capture, a search of the premises led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and a loaded magazine, which had been buried inside the building.

“The recovered weapons are in custody, while efforts are ongoing to nab the fleeing criminal and also recover other weapons in his possession,” the statement noted.

The following day, April 12, troops from Sector 2 of OPSH conducted an ambush against bandits operating along the Pinau-Bangalala Road in Wase LGA, based on actionable intelligence. One of the criminals was killed during the encounter, while others escaped with suspected injuries.

“Troops exploited the general area and recovered one fabricated pistol,” Zhakom confirmed.