A 25-year-old suspected member of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has surrendered to Nigerian troops in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State after spending about eight months with the terrorist group.
The suspect, identified as Alhaji Ali Gambo Kanuri, is reportedly from Ngarinna village in Monguno LGA. Military sources said he joined ISWAP about eight months ago after being introduced to the group by a friend.
According to the sources, Gambo later became disillusioned with the group and decided to abandon its activities.
His decision to leave was reportedly influenced by the harsh conditions faced by members of the group as military operations continued to target terrorist hideouts across the North-East.
Gambo eventually escaped from the area under the group’s control and made his way to Monguno town, where he surrendered to troops.
He was subsequently taken into custody and transferred to the relevant authorities for further screening and processing in accordance with established procedures for individuals who voluntarily disengage from terrorist organisations.
His surrender comes as security forces intensify counter-terrorism and clearance operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters operating in Borno State and other parts of the North-East.
The military has continued to urge individuals associated with terrorist groups to abandon violence, surrender peacefully and submit themselves to the established screening, rehabilitation and reintegration processes.
