A new report has revealed that Boko Haram insurgents are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) platforms to strengthen their operations, using chatbots to gain technical guidance on weapons, explosives, and battlefield tactics.
According to The New York Times, the findings stem from research by Antonia Juelich of the University of Cambridge, who interviewed former Boko Haram members in Nigeria over the past year.
Ex-commanders disclosed that the group used AI-powered chatbots to overcome operational challenges, including modifying motorcycles to leap defensive trenches during assaults on military bases.
One former commander explained: “We used AI to learn how to do this. We gave it information, like what motorcycles we use and the distance we need to jump, and it gave us steps on what we have to do.” Mechanics reportedly upgraded the bikes for speed and acceleration, while fighters rehearsed the manoeuvre before launching fresh attacks.
Beyond battlefield tactics, insurgents also sought AI guidance
