How 35 Suspected ISWAP Fighters Were Arrested, Detained

Thirty-five (35) suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters have been arrested through a joint operation launched by the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the police, and other security agencies.

Five of them were ISWAP commanders while thirty were fighters.

The terrorists were arrested at their hideouts in different locations in Abuja, Mararaba, and other satellite towns in the Federal Capital Territory.

The suspects are currently being held at a DSS facility.

The arrests come on the heels of heightened tension in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital as the popular Jabi Lake Mall shut its doors to shoppers and visitors on Thursday, citing the security situation.

The FCT Administration, in a bid to discourage criminal activities, also demolished shanties on Law School land, saying it was part of security measures.

Recall that Kanyi Daily reported that the US, UK, Canada, Australia and other foreign countries issued security alerts warning their nationals against visiting Abuja and 14 other states.

Reports say as a result of the alert, anxiety heightened among residents as many stayed away from work while vehicular traffic was unusually light.

Recall also that two terror suspects were arrested on Monday by security operatives at Trademore Estate in the Lugbe area of Abuja.

Where The 35 ISWAP Fighters Came From

Also, reports further say security sources explained that the ISWAP members relocated to the FCT following the heavy bombardment of their enclaves and camps in the North-West by the Nigerian Air Force.

A particular security source, according to Punch, revealed that the terror suspects were planning a big attack in Abuja before they were nabbed.