Troops arrest suspected ISWAP spy, logistics supplier during night patrol in Borno

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) member who allegedly confessed to spying on military movements and supplying logistics to terrorists operating in northern Borno State.

The suspect, identified as Muhammad Mustapha, 25, from Monguno Local Government Area, was arrested at about 9:00 p.m. on July 16, 2026 during a night patrol and identification exercise conducted by combined troops of the 403 Amphibious Brigade/130 Battalion (Motorised) in conjunction with the Nigerian Borderless Logistics Corps (NBLC) and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

The operation was carried out under Operation DESERT SANITY V.

During preliminary interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to being a member of a Boko Haram/ISWAP cell based in the Kadia area, north of Mairari town.

He further admitted that he had been tasked by the terrorist group to monitor and gather intelligence on troops conducting shoulder clearance operations along the Baga–Cross Kauwa Main Supply Route (MSR).

According to security sources, the suspect also confessed to serving as a logistics supplier and task collector for the terrorist group, supporting insurgent activities in the Lake Chad region.

The suspect is currently in the custody of the 403 Amphibious Brigade for further investigation and exploitation of intelligence.

Military sources said the arrest represents another significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist intelligence and logistics networks supporting insurgent operations in the North-East.

The military added that although the general security situation across the Operation HADIN KAI theatre remains calm, it is still unpredictable, with troops maintaining a high level of vigilance and operational readiness.