Two Teenage Girls Linked to ISWAP Families Surrender to Troops in Borno

Two teenage girls believed to be relatives of members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have surrendered to Nigerian Army troops in Pulka, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

Security sources said the teenagers, identified as Tata Ahmodu, 16, and Adama Abubakar, 14, surrendered at approximately 1:35 p.m. on June 19 to personnel of the 192 Battalion (Mechanised) stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Pulka.

Preliminary findings indicated that the girls fled from a terrorist enclave located in the Jongo area within the Dure axis of Sambisa Forest.

According to accounts provided during initial screening, sustained military operations and worsening living conditions, including shortages of basic necessities inside the camp, influenced their decision to escape.

Following their surrender, military authorities carried out screening and documentation procedures before placing them in custody for further investigation and administrative processes.

Security officials described the development as another indication of continued operational pressure on terrorist elements in the North-East, noting that ongoing military efforts have contributed to increasing cases of defections, surrenders and the recovery of vulnerable persons.

Authorities added that operations will continue across affected areas to weaken terrorist networks and support the restoration of stability in impacted communities.