SUNTV Global Channel | News Report | May 31, 2026
A first-known photograph of a top ISIS-linked commander, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, has surfaced following reports of his killing during a joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad region.
The image was released by security sources and published by counter-insurgency analyst Zagazola Makama, who said it was obtained shortly after the suspected terrorist leader was neutralised in an intelligence-led military strike in Metele, Borno State.
Al-Minuki, also known as Abbor Mainok, was described as one of the most influential and elusive commanders within the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), reportedly serving as a senior figure in the group’s hierarchy.
According to security reports, the photograph is believed to be the first publicly available image of the commander since he joined the insurgency years ago, as he had previously remained largely unidentified in public records despite his prominence.
Sources claim the image was taken after the operation by fighters who recovered his body following the military engagement, which reportedly targeted senior ISIS-linked leadership in the Lake Chad region.
The operation was said to be part of a coordinated Nigeria–US counterterrorism mission, which allegedly led to the elimination of the high-ranking militant leader.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump was reported to have announced the operation, stating that American and Nigerian forces carried out a “complex and precise mission” that resulted in the death of a senior ISIS figure he described as one of the group’s top global operatives.
He also claimed the strike was based on intelligence support and cooperation between both countries, adding that the mission significantly weakened ISIS operations in Africa.
The Defence Headquarters in Abuja later confirmed the killing of the suspect, linking him to several major terrorist operations, including past kidnappings in northern Nigeria.
Authorities say further intelligence assessments are ongoing as security forces continue counterterrorism operations in the Lake Chad basin.
— SUNTV Global Channel
