…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) has revealed that the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) is preparing to use drones for attacks in the Lake Chad Basin.
The unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are expected to fly improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to targeted locations in Nigeria and neighbouring countries in an attempt to strike undetected.
The ISS reports that the Nigerian military has inflicted losses on Boko Haram factions, JAS and ISWAP, forcing the latter to re-strategise.
The research found that ISWAP’s media team, led by Abba Yusuf (aka Abu Rumaisa), son of the late Boko Haram founder Mohammed Yusuf, uses a range of communication technology including satellite phones, social media, high-speed printers, and data compression and archiving software.
Curb on Drone Attacks
To curb the drone attacks, the security policy think-tank charged security agencies to sustain surveillance on supply routes through checkpoint searches, which “have proved successful”.
The ISS recommended that security forces should collaborate in the four affected Lake Chad Basin countries to help stop the supply of equipment and accessories to terrorists.
The security agencies should also sustain surveillance on supply routes through checkpoint searches, which “have proved successful”.
The research also suggests that going after ISWAP’s money is vital to curtail its major revenue base.
The authorities should also liaise with community leaders and relevant groups to identify and disrupt networks helping terrorists.
EFCC Warns Non-Profit Organizations
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned non-profit organizations (NPOs) against terrorism financing and money laundering.
The EFCC’s Maiduguri Zonal Commander, Oshodi Johnson, advised them to be committed to humanitarian work and shun acts against the laws of Nigeria.
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