DSS Arrests ISWAP Terrorists Posing as Watch Repairers in Osun
The Department of State Services (DSS) has revealed details of a successful operation that led to the capture of 10 suspected members of Boko Haram’s offshoot, the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP), in Ilesa, Osun State. The raid took place at an old bungalow near St. Mary Catholic Church in the Ilesa-East Local Government Area around 1:00 AM on December 16, 2024. A team of approximately 30 DSS operatives carried out the operation.
The news broke on January 10, 2025, when the DSS applied for a 60-day detention order for the suspects in a Federal High Court in Abuja. The arrested individuals include Adamu Abubakar (also known as Abu Aisha), Babagana Bashuli, Muhammed Adam, Mustapha Abacha, Katuru Muhammed, Babakura Abacha, Muhammed Ciroma, Ali Gambo, Muhammed Umoru, and Muhammed Bundi.
According to sources, the suspects were not all living together but were located in close proximity to each other. They worked as watch repairers and also sold watches and glasses. Despite the presence of many Hausa residents in the area, those conducting the operation knew exactly whom they were targeting and apprehended them without mistake.
One of the suspects, Abubakar, was known for selling wristwatches at a prominent roundabout in Ilesa. Some residents were left bewildered by the arrest, particularly members of the local mosque and the northern community. One local resident shared that after hearing the vehicles in the early morning hours, many sought information at various police stations and the army barracks, but the whereabouts of the arrested men remained unclear for some time.
Mohammed Borni, a leader of the Hausa community, recalled the arrest and expressed confusion. He noted that despite repeated visits to the police, no updates were provided. However, when asked about any suspicions regarding the arrested men, he firmly denied any link to terrorist activities, stating they were simply involved in selling wristwatches and MP3 players.
Other local community leaders, including Abba Chellu, confirmed the DSS had conducted two separate operations in the area, arresting a total of 11 individuals. This raised fears among residents, with many now on heightened alert. Bimpe Olaiwola, a local tailor, mentioned how the revelation of their suspected terrorist ties had left the community more cautious and concerned. Another resident, Tope Niyi, emphasized the increased vigilance, urging everyone to remain security-conscious despite the presence of these workers in the area.
