Troops of Operation Hadin Kai Joint Task Force North-East (OPHK) have arrested three suspected Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) recruitment agents in Banki town, Bama local government area of Borno State.

Credible sources said the suspects were arrested on Saturday, January 17, 2027, following a tip-off from a prominent resident of Banki (name withheld).

The sources said intelligence operatives were deployed to Banki on a covert operation, where they apprehended the suspects while attempting to recruit and move youths for terrorism training.

"They were identified as Gajibo Kayama, 23; Tahiru Modu, 22; and Bulama Modu, 24. They are suspected to be involved in the recruitment of youths aged between 17 and 20 from Banki town for ISWAP elements operating in Adamawa State," the source said.

According to preliminary investigations, the suspects were ISWAP members who claimed to have repented about five years ago but were allegedly re-engaging in recruitment activities.

"They were arrested while trying to recruit and convey youths within Banki town for training in Adamawa State," the source said.

The source added that the suspects have since been handed over to the Military Intelligence Regiment for detailed interrogation and further action.