Two suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have surrendered to Nigerian Army troops in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State, marking a significant development in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. The surrender took place on September 1 at approximately 8:20 p.m., when Jidda Modu, 20, and Kaka Kawu, 21, handed themselves over to soldiers stationed at Charlie 4, Monguno town, under Headquarters Sector 3. This event follows intensified military operations under Operation HADIN KAI, which has been instrumental in disrupting terrorist networks and encouraging defections.
The two men were found in possession of two AK-47 rifles, eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two magazines, all of which were seized by the troops. In addition to weapons, security expert Zagazola Makama reported that authorities recovered five mobile phones — including brands such as Infinix, Tecno, Samsung, Redmi, and a Tecno button phone — along with a pair of earbuds, a power bank, a Zenith Bank ATM card, a memory card, and a USB cable. These items suggest the individuals had access to communication tools and financial resources, indicating possible coordination or planning within the group.
Further recovery included two head warmers and one bag, which may have been used for concealment or travel during their movement. Preliminary interrogation revealed that Modu and Kawu were part of a larger group of about 10 ISWAP fighters who left a terrorist camp at Arinna Chiki with the intention of surrendering to Nigerian security forces. Their decision to defect highlights growing internal pressure within extremist groups due to sustained military operations and increased awareness among fighters.
The surrendered individuals and all recovered materials have been taken into custody by Headquarters Sector 3 for further investigation and legal proceedings. The incident underscores the effectiveness of Operation HADIN KAI in weakening ISWAP’s operational capacity and fostering defections. As military actions continue across northeastern Nigeria, the surrender of active combatants provides critical intelligence and reduces immediate threats to civilian populations.
This development is part of a broader trend where increasing military pressure and humanitarian outreach are influencing some insurgents to abandon violence. The Nigerian Army’s consistent presence and strategic operations remain key in dismantling terrorist infrastructure. With more fighters expected to reconsider their allegiance, this surrender could signal a turning point in the fight against insurgency in the region.
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