Security operatives in Borno have arrested a man suspected of spying for Boko Haram, days after a terrorist attack in Cross Kauwa.
The suspect, identified as Abulfatahi, was picked up on July 27 in Monguno during an intelligence-led operation targeting a local terrorist network, according to a report by counter-insurgency outlet Zagazola Makama.
During questioning, Abulfatahi reportedly told investigators he worked for a Boko Haram commander named Akilu, who is said to coordinate operations in Dabar Masara and Garin Mace.
Sources said he admitted to two main roles: collecting “taxes” on behalf of Akilu, and helping to identify people for abduction around Monguno.
Operatives also recovered two phone numbers from his mobile phone that are allegedly linked to Akilu. The numbers are now being used to trace other members of the network.
Makama reported that two other members of the same cell had been arrested earlier and moved to the Joint Intelligence Fusion Centre in Maiduguri for further questioning.
Security agencies say investigations are ongoing to map out the full extent of the network and identify additional collaborators. A full report is expected once the inquiry is concluded.
The arrest comes as authorities continue counter-terrorism operations in the Lake Chad region.
