Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have arrested three persons suspected of serving as recruitment agents for the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Banki, Borno State.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama, who covers developments in the Lake Chad region, reported that the suspects were apprehended on Saturday following credible intelligence provided by the district head of Banki.
According to the report, intelligence operatives carried out a covert operation that led to the arrest of the suspects while they were allegedly mobilising young people and arranging their movement for terrorist training.
The suspects were identified as Gajibo Kayama, 23; Tahiru Modu, 22; and Bulama Modu, 24.
Security sources said the trio were believed to be recruiting youths aged between 17 and 20 from Banki town for ISWAP elements operating in Adamawa State.
Initial investigations reportedly indicate that the suspects were once members of ISWAP and had claimed to have renounced the group about five years ago, but are now accused of resuming recruitment activities.
They have been handed over to a military intelligence unit for further interrogation and detailed investigation.