In a significant blow to global terrorism, forces from the United States and Nigeria have successfully eliminated Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as the second-in-command of the Islamic State (ISIS) globally. The operation took place in the Lake Chad region, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to dismantle extremist networks across West Africa.
US President Donald Trump announced the successful mission via Truth Social, describing the operation as a "meticulously planned and very complex mission" carried out under his direct guidance. According to the President, the operation targeted what he characterized as "the most active terrorist in the world," who had been tracked through sophisticated intelligence sources before being located in Africa.
The White House and Nigerian authorities have both confirmed the results of the operation. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu emphasized the strategic importance of the mission, stating that it dealt a "heavy blow" to the ranks of the Islamic State and disrupted their operational capabilities within the region.
Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a Nigerian national, was not only a high-ranking leader but a critical operational hub for the organization. Defence authorities revealed that al-Minuki was instrumental in coordinating external networks, specifically overseeing media operations, financing, and the development of explosive systems and weapons. His removal is expected to dismantle a critical node in the Islamic State's global coordination structure.
Al-Minuki had previously been designated as a "specially designated global terrorist" in 2023. While there have been historical tensions regarding the effectiveness of counter-militant strategies in the region, Nigerian authorities maintain a firm stance that their operations target all armed groups responsible for violence against civilians, regardless of religious affiliation.
This joint success comes amid a period of increased security cooperation between the United States and Nigeria. In recent months, the partnership has expanded to include enhanced drone surveillance, intelligence sharing, and training support to counter the expansion of extremist networks linked to both the Islamic State and al-Qaeda in West Africa.
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US, Nigerian forces kill senior ISIS leader in joint operation
cgtn.com
