The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested 10 suspected members of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria. The arrests were made after a covert operation at a bungalow near St. Mary Catholic Church in the Ilesa-East Local Government Area.
The suspects, identified as Adamu Abubakar (aka Abu Aisha), Babagana Bashuli, Muhammed Adam, Mustapha Abacha, and others, were reportedly undergoing training on explosives when apprehended. The DSS confirmed that these individuals are active members of Boko Haram and ISWAP, with plans for coordinated terror attacks.
The operation, which involved over 30 DSS operatives, spanned 90 days, with initial intelligence gathered in 2023 about a potential attack on a church in Ilesa. Despite setbacks due to leaks about the operation, the DSS intensified its surveillance, culminating in the arrests in December 2024.
Local leaders and residents were shocked by the arrests, as many knew the suspects as peaceful traders in the area. Following the incident, Governor Ademola Adeleke praised the DSS for its effective intelligence and swift action, assuring residents of their safety. He urged the people of Osun to remain vigilant and continue supporting security efforts to maintain peace in the state.
