The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) may be planning to use drones for attacks in parts of Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin.
This revelation was made by the Institute For Security Studies (ISS) in its latest published research findings.
ISS said the terrorists plan to use unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to move improvised explosive devices (IEDs) for strikes in Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
ISS believes the use of
UAVs will aid the terrorists to strike undetected and with minimal casualties to their personnel.
The ISS research, comprising analysis of propaganda materials and interviews with former combatants and associates, show plans and execution with elaborate use of communication technology.
The ISWAP uses satellite phones, drones, social media, high-speed printers, laptops, cameras, Wi-Fi, clip-on microphones, walkie-talkies, and data compression and archiving software.
“ISWAP used Thuraya Wi-Fi and spent about $6,000 monthly on data and that Lagos was the main supply source before a switch to Chad, where satellite phones are illegal”, ISS learnt.
ISWAP’s media team led by Abba Yusuf (aka Abu Rumaisa), son of the late Boko Haram founder, Mohammed Yusuf used these high tech tools.
Some repentant former fighters described how staff were recruited from within the sect and taught how to position themselves, and take photos and videos during attacks.
ISS charged security agencies to sustain surveillance on supply routes to curb the drone attacks through checkpoint searches.
“Those bringing in equipment and accessories should explain their destinations; collaboration among security forces in the four affected Lake Chad Basin countries can help,” it noted.
ISS also wants the military to “hold their personnel to the highest standards and use an independent ombudsman to deter corruption”. It believes this will cut down instances of military collaborators who assist terrorists.
Military authorities should liaise with community leaders and relevant groups to identify and disrupt networks of civilians helping terrorists.
“Going after ISWAP’s money is vital…to its major revenue base. Curtailing access to technology will prevent it from using tech to plan and execute attacks, spread propaganda and recruit,”
Towards cutting off sources of funding for terrorism, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) against terrorism financing and money laundering.
