In a major security breakthrough, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have neutralized a notorious ISWAP commander, Abu Fatima, and arrested 19 suspected drug dealers during simultaneous raids in Borno State.
Military sources said Abu Fatima, who had a ₦100 million bounty on his head, was intercepted during a special operation in Aleru village, Kukawa Local Government Area. He was critically injured and later died from excessive bleeding, while two of his top lieutenants were killed on the spot.
Recovered from the scene were AK-47 rifles, motorcycles, improvised explosive device (IED) components, and several communication gadgets used for coordinating attacks. The Defence Headquarters described the development as “a decisive blow” to the terrorist group’s operations.
In parallel operations, troops also arrested 19 drug dealers believed to be key suppliers of narcotics to insurgents. Military authorities said drugs have become a major fuel for terrorism, providing fighters with both financial support and psychological reinforcement.
Defence spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, hailed the troops for their professionalism and bravery, urging citizens to provide timely intelligence. Security analysts say the killing of Abu Fatima may temporarily weaken ISWAP’s command structure, though the military is being cautioned to prepare for retaliatory attacks.
