Emir of Gwoza confirms surrender of top Boko Haram commander
Story from, Saleh Inuwa Kano
The Emir of Gwoza in Borno State, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, has confirmed the surrender of the most wanted commander of Boko Haram terrorists, Malam Yathabalwe, to the troops of “Operation Hadin Kai.” Yathabalwe had been notorious for terrorising Gwoza and surrounding Mandara Mountain communities.
According to reliable sources, Malam Yathabalwe, prior to surrendering, was responsible for numerous attacks and killings, including the brutal murder of farmers on their farmlands in Gwoza and its environs.
The monarch stated, “We are pleased to confirm that the most wanted top commander of Boko Haram, who had been causing havoc in Gwoza and surrounding Mandara Mountain communities within my jurisdiction, Malam Yathabalwe, has surrendered to the troops of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ in the North East.”
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“He voluntarily emerged from his hideout on Friday morning, carrying two AK47 rifles and ammunition. Subsequently, he was handed over to the Nigerian military in Gwoza, and there are plans to transfer him to Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, for further interrogation or action.”
“Yathabalwe, prior to surrendering, had been instilling fear in my people for many years, particularly by making it challenging for farmers to access their farmlands. With this positive development, we anticipate a return to total peace in Gwoza and its surroundings.”
As of the time of reporting, attempts to verify the monarch’s claim from the military high command in 7 Division, Nigerian Army, Maiduguri, or Operation Hadin Kai were unsuccessful, although reports were circulating throughout Gwoza Town confirming the surrender of the feared militant.
