Troops of the Nigerian Army conducting counter-insurgency operations under Operation Hadin Kai have arrested a suspected courier believed to be part of the ISWAP logistics network supplying equipment to insurgents operating within the notorious Timbuktu Triangle.
Security sources disclosed that the suspect was apprehended while transporting motorcycle tyres and other mechanical spare parts believed to be destined for fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The arrest is seen as another breakthrough in the ongoing Nigerian Army operation aimed at weakening the logistical backbone of insurgent groups in Nigeria’s North-East.
The individual was intercepted along a route frequently used by couriers and smugglers who supply insurgent camps hidden in remote areas.
These supplies, particularly motorcycle tyres and engine components, are considered critical because insurgent fighters depend heavily on motorcycles for mobility during attacks and patrols across rural communities.
During interrogation by military intelligence officers, the suspect reportedly admitted to working within the ISWAP logistics network.
He explained that his task involved purchasing spare parts from commercial markets and secretly delivering them to insurgent bases located within the Timbuktu Triangle insurgency zone.
According to the suspect’s statement, he operated from a camp known as “Markas” in Kauwa, which he claimed was commanded by a leader identified as Hamzala and assisted by another commander known as Abu Umar.
His role, he said, involved sourcing motorcycle tyres and related components from Bajoga in Gombe State before transporting them through a network of rural communities.
The suspect detailed his typical travel path, saying he moved the supplies through Kukuwa, Gumsa, and Azare before crossing towards Buratai, eventually delivering the items to insurgent camps inside the Timbuktu Triangle.
This route, he explained, allowed him to blend in with regular traders and transporters while avoiding security checkpoints.
He also disclosed how the trade generated profit within the ISWAP logistics network.
According to him, motorcycle tyres purchased for around ₦13,000 each were later sold to insurgent fighters for approximately ₦25,000 in bulk.
Other spare parts such as spark plugs were also transported and sold within the group’s internal supply system.
Military officials believe such transactions are part of a broader informal economy that helps insurgent groups maintain their operational capacity.
Motorcycles remain one of the most important tools used by fighters involved in the Timbuktu Triangle insurgency, allowing them to travel quickly across difficult terrain and launch surprise attacks on communities or security posts.
The suspect further revealed that several insurgent commanders had recently been eliminated during recent North-East security operations carried out by troops under Operation Hadin Kai.
He mentioned locations including Ibba, Dusula, and Farouk as areas where insurgent positions had been targeted by Nigerian forces.
In another part of his confession, the suspect claimed he had begun reconsidering his involvement with the insurgents.
He reportedly told investigators that he had planned to surrender to authorities after the Ramadan fasting period but was arrested before carrying out the decision.
Military authorities say the arrest highlights the strategic focus of the Nigerian Army operation on dismantling supply chains that keep insurgent groups functioning.
By targeting couriers, suppliers, and intermediaries, the military hopes to weaken the operational strength of militants without relying solely on direct combat.
Security experts note that disrupting the ISWAP logistics network is critical to long-term stability in the region.
Insurgent groups often rely on hidden supply routes and civilian intermediaries to acquire fuel, food, spare parts, and communication equipment.
Officials overseeing North-East security operations stressed that intelligence-driven missions will continue across vulnerable communities and border routes.
The goal, they said, is to ensure that insurgent groups operating within the Timbuktu Triangle insurgency zone lose access to the materials needed to sustain their campaigns.
Military sources added that sustained pressure on logistics channels, combined with targeted offensives, remains central to the strategy of Operation Hadin Kai in restoring security to the North-East.
Ireport247news
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