Residents of Gwoza and nearby areas can breathe a sigh of relief as Mallam Yathabalwe, a notorious Boko Haram commander, has surrendered to Operation Hadin Kai troops in the North East. The Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, confirmed this significant development.

Boko Haram Commander Surrenders in Gwoza — Photo Credit: Nigerian Army
Source: Facebook

Surrender of Mallam Yathabalwe of Boko Haram

Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, the Emir of Gwoza, announced on Friday the surrender of Mallam Yathabalwe, a wanted Boko Haram commander responsible for numerous attacks in Gwoza and neighboring communities. Yathabalwe was known for his involvement in attacks, including the killing of farmers in the area.

According to the monarch, Yathabalwe willingly surrendered to troops of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’, bringing along two AK47 rifles and ammunition. He was handed over to the Nigerian military in Gwoza and might be transferred to Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, for further investigation.

This surrender marks a significant step towards peace in Gwoza and its surroundings, relieving the community from the grip of fear that Yathabalwe’s actions had instilled.

Military’s Response

However, the military’s high command in the 7 Division, Nigerian Army, Maiduguri, or Operation Hadin Kai, has not yet confirmed the Emir’s statement.

DHQ’s Declare 8 suspected killers, 17 soldiers in Delta wanted

In a separate development, the defence headquarters in Nigeria has declared eight individuals wanted in connection with the killings of 17 soldiers in the Okuama community of Delta State. The military released the names and photos of the suspects on its social media platform.

This declaration follows President Bola Tinubu’s decision to honor the children of the slain soldiers with federal government scholarships up to the university level, among other benefits.

Read also: