The Emir of Gwoza in Borno State Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, on Friday, said a wanted Boko Haram commander Mallam Yathabalwe, has surrendered to the troops of Operation Hadin Kai.
The traditional ruler, who spoke to journalists on Friday, said “We are happy to confirm and inform you that the most wanted top Commander of Boko Haram who had been terrorising Gwoza and other surrounding Mandara Mountain communities in my domain, Mallam Yathabalwe, has surrendered to troops of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ in the North-East.
“He willingly came out from his enclave on Friday morning with two AK47 rifles and some ammunition. He was then handed over to the troops of the Nigerian military in Gwoza, after which he may be taken to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, for further questioning or action.
“Yathabalwe, before surrendering, has been terrorising my people for many years, especially making it very difficult for farmers to access their farmlands. With this new development, we are hopeful that total peace will return to Gwoza and its environs.”
Dateline Nigeria reports that the military authorities are yet to speak on the development.
