A suspected terrorist belonging to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has surrendered to Nigerian Army troops operating in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. The surrender occurred on 7th May 2026, at approximately 12:35 p.m., while soldiers from the 192 Battalion were conducting a patrol along the 16-kilometre Gwoza-Limankara road.
Background of the Surrender
According to credible military sources in Maiduguri, the insurgent's decision to lay down his arms followed sustained counter-terrorism operations in the eastern fringe of the Sambisa Forest and the Mandara Mountains. The source stated, “The ground and aerial military offensives continue to weaken insurgents’ strongholds in the North-East, comprising six states including Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states.”
Escape from Terrorist Camp
The surrendered insurgent reportedly told troops that he had escaped from the notorious Drumme terrorist camp, located in the Mandara Mountains axis. This hilly terrain has been associated with terrorist activities in Gwoza and Madagali Local Government Areas. Security sources further revealed that the only item recovered from him at the point of surrender was the sum of ₦3,500 tucked under a pair of trousers.
Military Response
The surrendered suspect has since been taken into military custody for profiling, debriefing, and further investigation. The surrender comes amid growing reports of insurgents abandoning their hideout camps, following sustained aerial bombardments, ground assaults, and intensified clearance operations by troops across Borno State. Military sources say troops have continued their aggressive patrols and interdiction missions aimed at dismantling the remaining terrorist enclaves, while encouraging more fighters to surrender to the military.
