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The Nigerian Army has exposed ISWAP's global links by recovering footage of a Moroccan doctor and a Palestinian trainer.

The recovery of the footage comes after a recent operation by troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Cross Kauwa, Borno State. The operation led to the neutralization of an ISWAP cameraman, who had been recording footage of the group's activities.

Preliminary forensic analysis of the recovered footage has revealed that the operation was coordinated by four senior ISWAP commanders (Qai'ds), alongside three foreign terrorist facilitators. The facilitators include a Palestinian identified as Abu Ishaq, who is assessed to be ISWAP's overall trainer.

A Moroccan national, identified as Abu Thaiba, was also found to be serving as a medical doctor within the terrorist network. The presence and active involvement of these foreign nationals have reinforced intelligence assessments that ISWAP continued to benefit from external support, specialist expertise, and transnational terrorist linkages.

The failed attack by ISWAP terrorists on Cross Kauwa, which occurred on July 11, 2026, has been described as a costly weekend for the terrorist group. The operation was carried out by four senior ISWAP commanders, who were assisted by three foreign terrorist facilitators.

The Army spokesman, Capt. Muhammed Goni, stated that the presence and active involvement of the foreign nationals reinforced intelligence assessments that ISWAP continued to benefit from external support, specialist expertise, and transnational terrorist linkages.

The failed attack by ISWAP terrorists on Cross Kauwa has also lent further credence to recent intelligence reports of a cholera outbreak within terrorist enclaves. The terrorists had attempted to loot cholera medical supplies before being repelled by alert troops.

According to Capt. Goni, the attempted looting by ISWAP terrorists has forced the group to execute some of its members who had contracted cholera. The Army spokesman stated that the successful defence of the location further demonstrates the vigilance, combat readiness, and operational effectiveness of troops who continue to deny terrorist elements freedom of action across the North-East theatre.

What it means for the people of Borno State The presence of foreign nationals within ISWAP has raised concerns about the potential for the group to receive external support and expertise. The failed attack by ISWAP terrorists on Cross Kauwa has also highlighted the group's difficulties in executing coordinated attacks against highly alert and combat-ready troops.

The Army's response Operation Hadin Kai remains resolute in sustaining offensive operations, protecting vulnerable communities, and dismantling terrorist networks until lasting peace and security are fully restored across the North-East region.

Key Facts

  • The recovered footage identified a Palestinian acting as a trainer and a Moroccan national serving as a medical doctor for the insurgents.
  • The operation was coordinated by four senior ISWAP commanders and three foreign terrorist facilitators.
  • The presence and active involvement of foreign nationals have reinforced intelligence assessments that ISWAP continues to benefit from external support, specialist expertise, and transnational terrorist linkages.
  • The failed attack by ISWAP terrorists has lent further credence to recent intelligence reports of a cholera outbreak within terrorist enclaves.
  • The Army spokesman stated that troops recovered the Sony camcorder, several rounds of PKT and 7.62mm special ammunition, terrorist uniforms, and other combat equipment during the operation.