BREAKING NEWS: Nigerian Troops Arrest Two Suspected ISWAP Terrorists Posing as Tailors in Plateau State – A Call for Public Vigilance

In a major security breakthrough, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) have arrested two suspected members of the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State. The suspects, identified as Abdulkadir Dalhatu and Ubaidu Hassan, were posing as tailors before their capture during a well-coordinated operation on April 11, 2025.

This incident highlights a disturbing trend where terrorists and criminals disguise themselves as artisans, traders, or laborers to evade security forces and embed themselves within communities. While authorities have not issued any specific warning, this development should serve as a wake-up call for Nigerians—particularly in Southern states—to be extra cautious when dealing with unfamiliar service providers.

A Personal Warning: The Rising Threat of Fake Artisans

Having observed patterns in criminal operations, I strongly urge Nigerians, especially those in the South-East, South-South, and South-West, to be extremely careful when hiring or interacting with unknown artisans such as tailors, mechanics, electricians, and laborers. Terrorists and armed groups have been known to use such covers to:

- Gather intelligence on communities.
- Blend in while planning attacks or kidnappings.
- Recruit unsuspecting locals into criminal networks.

Safety Recommendations for the Public
To stay safe, citizens should:
✔ Demand proper identification from any unfamiliar artisan operating in their area.
✔ Monitor strange behavior, such as individuals who avoid questions about their background or take undue interest in security setups.
✔ Report suspicious persons to security agencies immediately—do not assume they are harmless.
✔ Avoid patronizing roadside artisans with no fixed address or verifiable references.

While security forces continue their commendable efforts, public awareness and proactive measures are crucial in preventing terrorists and criminals from exploiting local businesses as a cover for their activities.

Stay alert, question strangers, and always prioritize safety over convenience.

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