The Joint Investigation Centre (JIC) has announced the completion of investigations into 1,450 suspected terrorists, but expressed concerns over challenges hindering their prosecution.
Acting Commander of JIC, Colonel AU Ahmed, represented by Captain Olugbenga Adeniyi, made this disclosure during a media briefing on the Centre's activities. The 1,450 suspects are part of a larger group of 1,877 individuals being investigated for terrorism-related activities.
"After the investigation, the Complex Casework Group (CCG) carried out the review of the investigation reports and offered the necessary legal advice," Colonel Ahmed stated.
Three-Tier Classification System
According to the JIC, following investigations, suspects are categorized into three groups based on their level of involvement and the legal review of their cases. These categories determine their subsequent handling:
- Those recommended for prosecution are transferred to the Giwa Project in Kainji
- Individuals suitable for rehabilitation are moved to Operation SAFE CORRIDOR
- Those cleared for reintegration are handed over to the Borno State Government
Challenges Impeding Progress
Colonel Ahmed highlighted significant challenges hampering the Centre's effectiveness in bringing suspected terrorists to justice:
"The Centre faces difficulty in securing most of the witnesses that would have aided the investigations. This is partly due to lack of accessibility by own investigators to most of the areas of arrest or crime scene, unwillingness of some witnesses to come forward and testify," he explained.
He further emphasized that "the delay in prosecution of most of the suspects whose investigations have been completed also poses a great challenge to the Centre."
The JIC's announcement comes as the Borno State Government continues its reintegration program for deradicalized terrorists. Last month, 230 repentant terrorists completed the reintegration process, marking the latest batch to go through the program.
The Centre's revelation highlights the complex challenges Nigeria faces in its fight against terrorism, balancing the need for justice with rehabilitation efforts for those who renounce extremist ideologies.
