A suspected member of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has surrendered to Nigerian troops in Borno State. He reportedly surrendered alongside his wife and sons in Pulka, Gwoza Local Government Area.
Security publication Zagazola Makama reported the development on Friday, October 23. According to security sources, the family arrived at the military’s Forward Operating Base in Pulka on Wednesday, October 21.
Troops of the 192 Battalion (Motorised), under the 26 Task Force Brigade, received the family at the base. Preliminary investigations indicate that they escaped from the Wuja terrorist enclave in the Mandara Mountains.
However, the report did not identify the suspected ISWAP member or his family. It also did not establish whether his wife or sons participated in any insurgent activities.
Security sources said troops recovered a mobile phone from the family. The military has kept the family in custody for further investigation.
Meanwhile, investigators are expected to examine the man’s background and gather relevant intelligence. They may also seek information about activities within the Mandara Mountains.
The report did not disclose the contents of the recovered phone. Furthermore, authorities have not announced any findings from the ongoing investigation.
The surrender comes amid continued military operations against insurgent groups in Borno State. Security forces continue to target suspected terrorist hideouts across the North-East.
In addition, the military encourages members of armed groups to abandon violence and surrender. Such cases may provide useful intelligence about insurgent movements and activities.
However, investigators must verify the information obtained from each surrender. The reported ISWAP affiliation remains an allegation pending further confirmation. Likewise, the surrender does not prove that every family member participated in terrorism.
The development highlights ongoing security challenges around Gwoza and the Mandara Mountains. Authorities have yet to release further details about the family or the intelligence gathered during the operation.
