Yobe: 18 suspected Boko Haram members found dead in Army Custody in Potiskum LGA

In a shocking development, 18 suspected Boko Haram members were found dead in military custody in Potiskum, Yobe State. The incident, which has raised serious concerns about the circumstances surrounding their deaths, occurred shortly after the suspects were apprehended and interrogated by the Nigerian Army.

The suspects had been captured during a military operation aimed at curbing the activities of Boko Haram in the northeastern region of Nigeria. During interrogation, they reportedly confessed to being linked to a man named Mr. Shuabu, who had introduced them to the extremist group. According to the confessions, they had been led to believe that they were undergoing training to gain easier access to joining the Nigerian Army. However, this training turned out to be an initiation into Boko Haram.

One of the suspects disclosed that Abu Mohammed Abubakar al-Sheikawi, a prominent figure within Boko Haram, had personally visited them at their hideout in the forest just days before they were sent on their mission. The suspects revealed that they had been paid $1,000 each for their involvement in the operation.

Further investigations led to the capture of another individual in Kano, identified as Mallam Abdulahi Bello, who was reportedly connected to the group. Along with him were other individuals, including Isaiah Agbudu, who had been declared missing on March 10, 2014, by his parents and concerned family members. It later emerged that Isaiah Agbudu A had been initiated into Boko Haram, prompting the authorities to declare him wanted. He and others are still on the run.

The circumstances of the 18 suspects’ deaths remain unclear, as they were found with wounds on their bodies while in military custody. The Nigerian Army has stated that they do not know the cause of the deaths, a claim that has fueled speculation and concern among the public and the human rights organisations.

This incident adds to the growing list of troubling events in the fight against Boko Haram, raising questions about the treatment of detainees and the accountability of security forces in the region. The deaths of these suspects have sparked calls for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind this mysterious and tragic occurrence. Any useful information will be much appreciated.