#Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP)

[secular-jew]

6/7/2024 Nigeria (International Christian Concern) — Images of members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) executing three Christian men in Borno state, Nigeria, are circulating on social media.

One image, allegedly shared on June 4 by the Islamic State group (ISIS) through its propaganda outlet, Amaq News Agency, shows the Christian men kneeling with their arms tied behind their backs before three masked gunmen. Another image shows the bodies of the believers falling to the ground under a cloud of smoke from the Islamic extremists’ machine guns.

The Islamic extremists reportedly abducted the men from a vehicle traveling along a highway that runs through the northern Nigerian state on June 3. Muslim passengers were allowed to leave. The terrorists reportedly abducted a fourth passenger, but their condition is unknown at this time.

The Rev. Ibrahim Abako, secretary of the Yobe State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, confirmed the deaths in an interview with Leadership Media Group, a Nigerian news outlet.

“On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Yobe State chapter, we condemn in totality the killing of three Christian youth along Damaturu-Biu Road Federal Highway,” the Rev. said.

In January, ISWAP, which formed in 2016 from defectors of Boko Haram, conducted eight attacks against Christian communities in several villages in Nigeria. During the attacks, 12 Christians were killed while other Christians were forced to flee from their homes that ISWAP militants burned down. These attacks are part of ISIS’ call in January for its affiliates to “kill (Christians) where you find them.”

[gbeducitynews]

Many killed as ISWAP, Boko Haram fighters clash in Lake Chad

Scores of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters have been killed in another clash between the two groups. The clash occurred on the islands of Kandahar and Kaduna Ruwa on the Lake Chad shores of Kukawa, near the Nigerian border with Cameroon. DAILY POST gathered that the clash began late afternoon on Monday, January 15, 2024, when the ISWAP faction launched a fresh…

[crimechannels]

By • Olalekan Fagbade Fifty [50] suspected Terrorists neutralised by Soldiers, 114 others arrested – DHQ The Defence Headquarters says troops have neutralised 50 terrorists and apprehended 114 others within a week in various operations across North-East, North- Central and North-West. The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known while briefing newsmen on the operations of the Armed Forces, on Thursday in Abuja. Buba said the troops also rescued 49 kidnapped hostages within the week. He said troops of Operation Hadin Kai in the North East had sustained onslaught against Boko Haram and Islamic States of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists, leading to the surrender of some of their fighters in Borno and Yobe. Buba said the troops also recovered 17 AK47 rifles, one AK47 rifle loaded with 21 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, one hand grenade, 137 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and four mobile phones. According to him, the troops also neutralised 12 terrorists, arrested 26 and rescued six kidnapped hostages in the region. He added that the air component of Operation Hadin Kai conducted air interdiction around Damboa-Maiduguri and Gwoza-Madagali areas, during which some terrorists were sighted and neutralised with rockets. Buba said troops of Operation Safe Haven in North Central had while on fighting patrol, arrested suspected kidnappers in Kanam and Sanga Local Government Areas of Plateau and Kaduna states within the period. He said one AK47 rifle, four pistols, a Dane gun, 15 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and two mobile phones were recovered while two terrorists were eliminated, 12 apprehended and three kidnapped hostages rescued. The defence spokesman added that troops of Operation Whirl Stroke also conducted raids and arrested suspected terrorists in Takum Local Government Area of Benue and the Federal Capital Territory. Buba further said that the troops had apprehended 26 suspected criminals and illegal oil bunkerers in Gwagwalada and Abuja Municipal Councils of the FCT within the week under review. “Overall, troops neutralised four terrorists, arrested 28 terrorists and rescued one kidnapped hostage,” he added. In the North West, Buba said troops of Operation Hadarin Daji had conducted fighting patrol and neutralised terrorists in Katsina, Kaduna and Zamfara. He added that nine terrorists were neutralised, 12 arrested, and 25 kidnapped victims rescued. Buba further said that 10 AK47 rifles, one locally fabricated gun, 155 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, one magazine and one vehicle were recovered from the criminals. The defence spokesman said an air interdiction by the air component of Operation Hadarin Daji on the enclave of a terrorist, Kamilu Buzaru, in Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State, succeeded in neutralising several of the terrorists. “It was acquired and attacked with rockets, neutralizing several terrorists and destroying their logistics,” he added. (NAN) #114othersarrested #FiftysuspectedTerroristsneutralised

[hardynwa]

ISWAP reportedly invites Boko Haram for gunfight in Sambisa forest

A counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in Lake Chad, Zagazola Makama says he has received an exclusive letter written by ISWAP group to the Boko Haram faction of Abubakar Shekau, challenging them to a fight. Zagazola claimed ISWAP accused the Boko Haram group of misleading the people, spreading falsehood, withholding the truths, corruption and raping of women in the name of worshipping God. His statement was contained in a post on his social media platform on Friday in which he stated that the Boko Haram faction had already accepted the challenge. According to him, the battle took place in Gaizuwa, with many killed on both sides. Recall that the security expert had posted a different statement on Wednesday claiming that Boko Haram fighters captured 60 terrorists of the Islamic State in West Africa Province, ISWAP, including three key commanders of the sect. Zagozola said that the ISWAP terrorists were captured on their way to Damasak in Borno State, identifying the commanders as Abubakar Saddiq, Abou Maimuna and Malam Idris. However, Zagazola said “both groups are warming up for the next battle although the time and venue remain unannounced.” He wrote, “EXCLUSIVE: ISWAP Invited Boko Haram to a gunfight in Sambisa forest. “Zagazola has received an exclusive later written by ISWAP group to the Boko Haram faction of Abubakar SHEKAU, challenging them to a FIGHT. “In the letter addressed to Boko Haram, the ISWAP said: ‘We warned you about what you are doing; from killing, destroying people’s properties, and abusing the courses of our Jihad. “They also accused the Boko Haram group of misleading the people, spreading falsehood, withholding the truths, corruption and raping of women in the name of worshipping God. “Beware, beware, get ready, we will follow you for leading our people astray. And the attack will be on this date: “57/Rabi Al-Awwal/9448 AH corresponding to 94/August/5252 AD. “The Boko Haram faction already accepted the Challenge. The battle took place in Gaizuwa with many killed on both sides. “Both groups are warming up for the next battle. Time and Venue unannounced.” Read the full article

[thxnews]

A New Dawn Post Niger Coup: Empowering Africa's Bright Future

  The deposed President and Others in Custody Should Be Treated Lawfully and with Respect

In the aftermath of the recent coup in Niger, Human Rights Watch has called for the military forces responsible to prioritize the restoration of fundamental human rights and ensure the safety and protection of the people. The coup leaders have been urged to treat the deposed president, Mohamed Bazoum, and all others in custody, including Interior Minister Hamadou Adamou Souley, lawfully and with respect while facilitating a swift transition to democratic civilian rule.  

The Overthrow and Suspension of Institutions: Events Leading to the Coup

On July 26, 2023, a group of Nigerien army officers, self-proclaiming as the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (Conseil National pour la sauveguarde de la patrie, CNSP), made a shocking announcement on national television about the overthrow of President Bazoum's government. Major-colonel Amadou Abdramane, speaking on behalf of the coup leaders, cited a deteriorating security situation and poor economic and social governance as the reasons for their actions. Consequently, the coup leaders dissolved the constitution, suspended all institutions, and closed the nation's borders.  

Pleas for Human Rights Amid Protests and Chaos

Following the coup announcement, crowds took to the streets in support of President Bazoum. In response, soldiers behind the coup fired warning shots to disperse the protests, resulting in chaos and the burning of vehicles around the headquarters of Bazoum's party, the Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism (Parti Nigérien pour la Democratie et le Socialisme, PNDS-Tarayya). Meanwhile, the media reported that several hundred people gathered in front of the National Assembly to express support for the coup leaders. They passionately called for Russian intervention and the departure of French troops in Niger.  

Concerns for Democracy and Human Rights

President Bazoum's whereabouts remain unclear. However, in a Twitter post on his official account on July 27, he publicly reassured that the hard-won gains of democracy would be safeguarded. The 63-year-old leader, elected in 2021 during Niger's first democratic transition since it gained independence from French colonial rule in 1960, has received backing from Western powers for supporting counterinsurgency operations in the Sahel region.   The Context of Unrest in Niger Niger has been grappling with armed Islamist attacks on its security forces and civilians since 2015. Initially concentrated in southeastern Niger by Nigeria-based groups Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the attacks shifted to western Niger in 2019, perpetrated by armed Islamist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Additionally, the country faces serious hazards from climate change, including floods and droughts, leading to a complex humanitarian crisis affecting about 17 percent of the population, or 4.3 million people, who require humanitarian assistance, according to the United Nations.  

A History of Military Coups in the Sahel Region

This recent coup marks the fourth in Niger's history since gaining independence. It adds to the troubling trend of military takeovers in the Sahel region and West Africa. Neighboring countries like Mali and Burkina Faso have also experienced military coups in recent years, with Chad, Guinea, and Sudan facing similar challenges in 2021.  

The Call for Respect of Human Rights

Prominent Nigerien human rights defender, Rabia Djibo Magagi, expressed hope that the new military authorities would diligently uphold human rights during these turbulent times. She emphasized that the unrest caused by the coup should not compromise the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. Consequently, Human Rights Watch has joined in urging the Nigerian military authorities to ensure the rights of all citizens, including President Bazoum and his family. Additionally, they should provide a clear timeline for the return to democratic civilian rule.   UN Human Rights Chief's Plea for Release On July 27, the UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, called for the immediate and unconditional release of President Bazoum and all arbitrarily detained members of his government and their relatives. Türk emphasized the necessity to ensure their security during these uncertain times. In this critical moment, Human Rights Watch emphasizes that the Niger coup and the new military leaders must demonstrate a commitment to respecting human rights and the rule of law. It is essential for them to safeguard the rights of all citizens while fostering a swift return to democratic governance. The eyes of the international community remain closely fixed on Niger, urging the coup leaders to act responsibly and uphold the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Nigeriens.   Sources: THX News & Human Rights Watch. Read the full article

[polityreporters]

Boko Haram Commander, Lieutenant Surrender

Boko Haram Commander, Lieutenant Surrender

A top commander of the Boko Haram, Khaid Malam Ali and his lieutenant, Bunu Umar have surrendered to the troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno State, Northeast, Nigeria. It was learnt that Ali and his fighters were dislodged by a rival Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists group after a coordinated raid on the hideouts of Boko Haram in Bula Alhaji Garwaye at the edge of…

[m-ultraarticles]

Niger says it has picked up 1,400 Boko Haram followers

Nearly 1,400 followers of Nigeria’s notorious Boko Haram jihadist group have been intercepted fleeing into Niger following clashes with a rival Islamic State group, according to the army. The exodus into southeastern Niger started in March, when the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) pursued Boko Haram in its forest hideout of Sambisa, northeastern Niger. Niger’s armed forces have so far…

[rnnonline]

ISWAP leaders Ali Kwaya, Bukar Mainoka Killed in Lake Chad by Nigerian Military

ISWAP leaders Ali Kwaya, Bukar Mainoka Killed in Lake Chad by Nigerian Military

Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) leaders Ali Kwaya and Bukar Mainoka have been eliminated. They were killed in an operation by Nigerian military fighter jets at Lake Chad on Saturday, according to PRNigeria. Kwaya and Mainoka were influential members of the ISWAP Shura (Consultation) Council. They died after the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai conducted air interdiction missions…

[secular-jew]

Daily Caliphate Headlines: The Repugnant and Vile Voices of the Global Islamic Caliphate:

Syrian Journalist: Supporting Terrorist Organizations In The Name Of Solidarity With The Palestinian Cause Endangers The Middle East

In Speech Leading To Her Arrest, International Coordinator Of Samidoun Charlotte Kates At Vancouver Rally: Long Live October 7; Hamas, PFLP, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hizbullah Are Not Terrorist Groups, They Are Heroes

Muslim American Society Staten Island Imam Abdelrahman Badawy: The Zionist Devils Have Envy, Hatred, Evil In Their Hearts; They Are Like The Sneaky, Cunning, Conniving, Foul Jewish Tribe That Battled The Prophet Muhammad

Islamic State Mozambique Province Releases Photos Showing Operatives Taking Down Crosses, Torching Church In Christian Village In Nampula

Jordanian MPs Join The 'Gaza Freedom Flotilla' In Turkey: We Have Written Our Wills And Are Here With The Intention Of Waging Jihad, Becoming Martyrs; We Will Sacrifice Our Souls And Blood To Redeem Our People; We Will Break The Siege And Join Our Brothers In Gaza

Hamas Senior Official Mousa Abu Marzouk: Most Of Hamas's Leaders Are Jordanian Citizens; If We Had To Leave Qatar, We Would Go To Jordan

The Houthis Seek To Position Themselves As A Regional Power Opposing The U.S. And The West; Houthi Shura Council Member: Everyone Hostile To America Is Our Friend, We Will Welcome Exchange Of Military Expertise

Strengthening Relations With Palestinian Factions; Coordination With Hamas Regarding Crew Of Highjacked "Galaxy Leader" Ship

Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) Claims IED Attacks Against Nigerian Army, Affiliated Militia In Borno State; Publishes Photos Of Armed Assault On Army Barracks In Niger's Diffa Region

'Al-Akhbar' Daily: Iran-Backed Militias Deliberately Not Claiming Responsibility For Attacks Against U.S. Forces; Attacks To Continue Until U.S. Forces Withdraw, War In Gaza Ends

Iranian TV Report About Gaza 'Freedom Flotilla,' American Attorney Lamis Deek: The Age Of Israeli Impunity Has Ended; We Will Make Sure Every Israeli Soldier, Settler, Head Of State Pays For Every Crime Committed Against Palestinians Since 1948

Yemeni-Houthi Minister Of Information Dayfallah Al-Shami: We Chant 'Curses Upon The Jews' Because They Are Cunning Schemers; We Would Fight Against The Zionists Directly In Gaza, But It's Too Far Away

English-Language Salafi-Jihadi Telegram Channel Criticizes 'Tamed' Version Of Islam That Limits Jihad; Endorses Terror Attacks In Non-Muslim Countries

In Dari-Language Article, Hizb-ut Tahrir Afghanistan Writes: 'America Is Trying To Influence And Interfere In Afghanistan In Many Ways, Including The Issue Of Women'; 'Women In Western And American Thought Are Nothing More Than A Commodity To Be Used... To Secure The Evil Interests Of Western And American States' 

In Karachi, Suicide Bombers Target Van Carrying Japanese Nationals Working In Pakistan's Export Processing Zone

Sec.-Gen. Of The Arab League Ahmed Aboul Gheit: The Jews Have No Conscience Left – It Was Burned In The Holocaust; Israel Does Not Have The Right To Self-Defense Just Like The Nazis Did Not Have It In WWII

Hamas's Izz Al-Din Al-Qassam Brigades Spokesman Abu Ubaida: We Salute The Heroes In The West Bank And The Jordanian Masses And Call Upon Them To Escalate Their Activity And Resistance

 Pro-Al-Qaeda Media Group Praises Stabbings In Australia, France; Warns 'Crusader Peoples' Against Defaming Islam

Commanders Of Iran-Backed Iraqi Militias Hold Secret Meeting In Syrian City Of Al-Bukamal

Senior Hamas Official Praises Anti-Israel Demonstrations Across U.S.: 'Today's Students Are The Leaders Of Tomorrow'

Hizbullah-Affiliated Academic Sheikh Sadek Al-Naboulsi: The Pre-October 7 Element Of Surprise Has Been Lost, But Hizbullah Is Preparing For Nasrallah's Orders To Cross Into The Galilee At The Right Time

Qatari Shura Council Member Essa Al-Nassr: October 7 Was An Introduction To The Annihilation Of The Zionist State; There Can Be No Peace With Them; They Are The Slayers Of The Prophets

Dearborn, Michigan Friday Sermon By Dr. Baqir Berry: Zionism, Israel Pose An 'Imminent Danger' To Humanity, Like Nazism; The Jews Need To Be Re-educated; In America Too, The Zionists Are Barbaric, Criminal Savages – What Kind Of Peace Can You Have With Them?

Greenville, North Carolina Friday Sermon By Imam Khadem AbuZain: Allah Decreed Friday Sermons In Order To Inspire Youth To Raise The Banner Of Jihad; We Have Become Numb To The Nature Of The Jews, Who Killed Prophets And Apostles, And Strive To Spread Corruption; Gaza Is Harboring The Heroes Of Palestine Who Declared Jihad

[alabingo]

Troops repel attack on base in Niger, kill 8 terrorists, capture commander

Troops repel attack on base in Niger, kill 8 terrorists, capture commander

The military has killed eight suspected of Islamic State-allied jihadists after repelling a raid on a military base in central Niger state, where hundreds of militants are being held. According to military sources, dozens of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters tried to break into the Wawa military cantonment in the remote New Bussa village near the border with Benin Republic late…

[gkingmusik]

DSS Detains 35 Suspected ISWAP Members In Abuja

DSS Detains 35 Suspected ISWAP Members In Abuja

A joint operation launched by the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the police and other security agencies have successfully dismantled a terror cell and arrested five Islamic State West Africa Province commanders and 30 fighters. DSS Detains 35 Suspected ISWAP Members In Abuja According to The PUNCH, the terror suspects were apprehended at their hideouts in…

[crimechannels]

By • Olalekan Fagbade Suspected Terrorists kill two persons, kidnap two Traditional Rulers, other persons The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists have reportedly killed two people and kidnapped six others including two traditional rulers in the southern part of Borno State. It was reported that ISWAP attacked a remote village of Burum, 20 kilometres along Damboa/ Biu highway, where two traditional rulers were forcefully taken away after troops had killed an unspecified number of ISWAP in ambush last Thursday in the area. Sources said ISWAP fighters came back to the village and took away people as revenge for leaking their movement to troops. “They forcefully took two traditional rulers (Wakinlin Lawan and Bulama of Burum village), the representatives who stood in for Ward Head and Village Head respectively. Since their abduction, we haven’t heard of their whereabouts. “They blamed the villagers for leaking information to the troops who had earlier ambushed and killed an unspecified number of ISWAP fighters in the general area. “It is four days now, we are seriously worried about their safety and this ugly development. We are begging the government to intervene,” one of the sources said. Similarly, the fighters of ISWAP attacked two villages on Sunday night where two persons were shot dead and others sustained various degrees of injuries in Damboa villages. A member of a vigilante group revealed that five persons were abducted by the invaders in the wee of the night. “In Mugule village, one was killed, three abducted and one other sustained a gunshot wound in the abdomen on Sunday night. “Also, in another Azir village, one person was killed, one wounded and two equally taken by the attackers two days ago,” a vigilante source revealed. Meanwhile, the Boko Haram Commander in charge of Sambisa and Gwoza axis, Ali Gana Alhaji Ali, has been killed by ISWAP fighters on Gwoza hill, Gwoza LGA of Borno State. Security source told Daily Trust that Ali, one of deadliest terrorist leaders in Borno, was killed during an ambush by the ISWAP fighters on Sunday. “He was the deputy of the late Ali Ngulde, and apart from Shekau, nobody killed human beings like him from Sambisa forest, Banking, and Bayan Dutsen Gwoza. “He was a crude killer. His foot terrorists in Gwoza areas constantly instill fear upon communities, farmers and commuters along Pulka, Banking, Bama, Gwoza Mubi routes. “They take no prisoners, people are slaughtered in their farms on a weekly basis. Gwoza people will surely celebrate his demise,” he said. This is coming over two years after the leader of Boko Haram terrorists, Abubakar Shekau blew himself up during a deadly confrontation with the ISWAP fighters in May 2021. Last week, the member representing Goza, Damboa and Chibok federal constituency in the National Assembly, Usman Ahmed Jaha decried the killing of ten farmers in 10 days in the Goza axis. He also complained that farmers were being killed on a daily basis in the area to scare them from harvesting their food crops. #ISWAPmilitantskilltwopersonskidbaptwoTraditionalRulers

[hardynwa]

ISWAP to use drones, advanced tech for attacks

Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) could be close to using delivery drones for attacks in the Lake Chad Basin. Weaponising and adapting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is a new trend in the group’s operational strategy, and could worsen the conflict. Institute for Security Studies (ISS) research shows that ISWAP is already trialling delivery drones to carry improvised explosive devices. This includes assessing the weight that can be carried, how far they can go and how long they stay in the air. The threat goes beyond military targets and may impact humanitarian service delivery. Ongoing operations by Nigeria’s military and clashes with Boko Haram faction, Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS), have inflicted heavy losses on ISWAP and significantly reduced its space to operate. And successful intelligence-driven strikes resulting in arrests of ISWAP members outside the North-east are preventing the group from expanding. These setbacks may be forcing ISWAP to adapt its strategy, as it has done before. So far, ISWAP’s use of drones has been limited to propaganda, surveillance and communication. ISS research, including analysis of publicly available propaganda materials and interviews with former combatants and associates, reveals an elaborate use of communication technology (see Chart 1). This includes satellite and android phones, drones, social media (Telegram and WhatsApp), high-speed printers, laptops, high-definition digital cameras, Wi-Fi, clip-on microphones, walkie-talkies, and data compression and archiving software. All these tools are used by the media team headed by Abba Yusuf (Abu Rumaisa), son of late Boko Haram founder Mohammed Yusuf. The team’s primary function is to showcase ISWAP as a successful jihadist group. That propaganda will encourage recruitment and present a positive image that cements its position as the top Islamic State affiliate globally. The media department also handles relations with other violent extremist groups, including Islamic State. Former ISWAP members, including from the media unit, told ISS how the department functions. Staff are recruited from within the group and taught the basics of operating the equipment, mostly cameras. They accompany fighters and wait at a distance to be invited to take photos and videos, usually when things go ISWAP’s way. The raw footage and pictures are sent to Islamic State, which produces the propaganda material. The group shares the content with ISWAP’s media team, which distributes it through a private and members-only Telegram account, Nashir News Agency (see Chart 2). ISWAP relies heavily on high-speed satellite internet to communicate with Islamic State and other groups. Sources told ISS that ISWAP used Thuraya Wi-Fi and spent about $6,000 monthly on data. They said Lagos was the main supply source but that ISWAP encountered a problem with the supply, forcing it to switch to Chad. Although Thuraya satellite phones and internet services are illegal in Chad, they are used in secret. A particular Thuraya model stands out as a possible device used by ISWAP. It is available in Nigeria but mainly in Lagos. The Thuraya XT-Hotspot is marketed as the ‘world’s fastest Wi-Fi via satellite for communication needs beyond GSM coverage … for quick and secure Internet connectivity in the remotest of locations.’ The sources claim ISWAP has dedicated vehicles fitted with internet services to facilitate communication and data sharing on the go. The media team uses one of these vehicles when it accompanies fighters, enabling them to immediately share material from the battlefield. This explains how ISWAP can release information quickly, including images and videos, sometimes within hours of attacks. ISWAP’s public communication also suggests it can easily share data with Islamic State using data compression and archiving software. In addition to speed and encryption, the software reduces bandwidth costs. There is no single way to deal with the problem of ISWAP’s use of technology. The solution lies in various measures working together. ISS research has detailed how ISWAP exploited Lake Chad Basin trade routes to get vital supplies. The group’s remote location should be an advantage for security forces who could disrupt its supply lines. Checkpoint searches have proved successful and can be used again. Those bringing in equipment and accessories should explain their destinations, which security agents should verify. Collaboration among security forces in the four affected Lake Chad Basin countries can help. The ISS report also showed how civilian and military collaborators helped ISWAP get supplies. Security force leaders in the region must hold their personnel to the highest standards and use an independent ombudsman to deter corruption. To prevent civilians from collaborating with terror groups, authorities should work with communities and trade unions to identify and disrupt networks helping ISWAP. The criminal justice system can also play a deterrent role. A future concern is that violent extremist groups like ISWAP become involved in cybercrime. Given Nigeria’s enormous financial powers and growing tech industry, authorities should prepare for this. Investing in technology and collaborating with tech companies to prevent their products, platforms or services from falling into ISWAP’s hands is a start. Going after ISWAP’s money is vital. The group should be forced out of its current location using targeted and joint military operations. This would cut ISWAP’s access to its major revenue base. In using these tactics, care should be taken to avoid adversely affecting civilians, either by destroying their livelihoods or inflicting human rights violations. Curtailing ISWAP’s access to technology will prevent it from using tech to plan and execute attacks, spread propaganda and recruit. That will reduce the damage the group inflicts on civilians and aid workers in the Lake Chad Basin. Read the full article