From HASSAN JIRGI, Maiduguri
Security analyst and counter insurgency expert in the Lake Chad axis, Mr Zagazola Makama has confirmed that two soldiers attached to 135 Special Forces Battalion are under investigation for alleged collaboration with ISWAP terrorists and compromising national security in Yobe State.
Makama stated that the betrayal was believed to have enabled the terrorists to set up the ambush, which was ultimately foiled by troops of the same battalion during a swift rescue mission that led to the freeing of four abducted civilians and the recovery of weapons and equipment.
The soldiers’ telephone conversations were intercepted and analyzed by security operatives, revealing links to the May 9 kidnapping of commuters along Gashua-Azare highway.
Credible source close to the investigation said the duo allegedly leaked the movement of their patrol team along Buratai-Kamuya-Azare-Gashua axis, paving the way for ISWAP fighters to stage an ambush that briefly disrupted civilian movement before a successful counter-attack was launched.
According to him, the military authorities have since launched a full-scale internal investigation into the matter. The two soldiers are currently in custody, and their identities are being withheld pending further findings.
He also noted that revelation has triggered concerns over internal sabotage and the urgent need for tighter intelligence monitoring within the ranks to prevent future breaches and preserve the integrity of ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the North East.
Also, a top security official stated, “The system will not spare any uniformed personnel found collaborating with enemies of the state. The fight against insurgency must be backed by absolute loyalty and trust.”
