An Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighter has surrendered to troops of 242 Recce Battalion, Nigerian Army, in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State.

Troops also arrested several terrorist and criminal collaborators in Kano, Plateau, Taraba, Lagos, and Rivers States, recovering weapons and ammunition.

A military source told The Nation on Tuesday that the success was achieved following a renewed vigor and intensive military onslaught across the country from August 31 to September.

According to the source, a preliminary investigation into the surrendered ISWAP fighter revealed that he had been with the group since 2013 but abandoned the insurgency due to hardship and internal divisions.

“In the same period, troops arrested several criminal collaborators and suspects across Kano, Lagos, Plateau, Taraba, and Rivers States, recovering weapons and stolen items which have been handed over to relevant authorities for further action.”

According to the source, an intensive operation in the Northwest on August 31 led to the rescue of nine kidnap victims – six children and three women – from bandits in Zamfara State.

“In a related operation, troops of 8 Division Garrison neutralized a terrorist at Gidan Garkuwa in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State, recovering an AK-47 rifle and five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

“Similarly, troops of 1 Brigade made contact with armed groups at Magazu in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, leading to the recovery of motorcycles and military uniforms.”

The source noted that the coordinated operations have “significantly weakened terrorist mobility and logistics”, fostering a safer environment that will enhance agricultural activities in the region.

According to the source, the troops’ onslaught in the Northcentral region has prevented criminals’ free movement and secured major roads for commuters.

“Accordingly, troops thwarted criminal activities in Plateau State by foiling armed robbery along the Jos–Bauchi road and responding to attempted cattle rustling in Mangu Local Government Area.”

Regarding the operations in Lagos and Rivers States, the source stated that troops uncovered illegal refining sites and intercepted suspects involved in the theft of construction materials.

“These operations highlight the Nigerian Army’s commitment to tackling both terrorism and criminality nationwide,” the source said. (The Nation)