Troops nab suspected ISWAP members in Plateau raid

In a significant breakthrough in the fight against terrorism, Nigerian military forces under Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have apprehended two suspected members of the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) during a targeted operation in Plateau State.

The suspects were captured on April 11, 2025, during a meticulously planned raid by troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Shendam.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by OPSH Media Information Officer, Major Samson Zhakom, the raid focused on a suspected ISWAP hideout in the Yelwa axis of 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.