A commander of the Boko Haram-linked Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction, three fighters and a woman have surrendered to Nigerian Army troops in Borno State, security sources confirmed.
The surrender took place in the Kumburi general area of Bama Local Government Area, where troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade are conducting Operations Hadin Kai and Desert Sanity V. According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who obtained a military Special Situation Report, the group turned themselves in recently following intense clashes between rival JAS and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, combined with sustained intelligence-driven military operations in the area.
The JAS commander was identified as Ishiaku Agah. The three fighters were named Sulieman Yaga, Iburija Chari and Ba’ana Modu. The woman, identified as Falmata Modu, was part of the group that arrived from the Bula Daloye area before surrendering to the troops.
Troops recovered 358 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammunition and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition from the surrendered individuals. All five persons and the recovered weapons have been taken into custody for further action, while troops continue to monitor the area for other fighters willing to lay down their arms.
The development comes amid renewed clashes between JAS and ISWAP factions in parts of Borno. Security sources say the infighting, coupled with sustained military pressure, has increased strain on terrorist fighters and their support networks. The military described the general security situation across the theatre as “calm but unpredictable,” adding that troop morale and fighting efficiency remain satisfactory.
Analysts view the surrender as an indicator of growing pressure on insurgent groups in the Lake Chad region. The military says operations will continue to degrade terrorist capabilities and encourage further defections.