ISWAP, boko haram fighters clash in Borno, leaving dozens dead
A brutal clash broke out between rival terrorist groups, Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), in Borno State on Friday, leading to heavy casualties on both sides.
According to sources, JAS fighters launched a coordinated assault on ISWAP strongholds in Abadam Local Government Area, targeting camps in Toumbun Gini and Toumbun Ali.
The attack, which began in the early hours of February 14, saw JAS militants arriving in multiple waterborne vessels and engaging ISWAP forces in intense combat that lasted until late evening.
The battle claimed the lives of several senior ISWAP commanders, particularly from the Buduma ethnic group. Among them was a key figure reportedly responsible for the massacre of dozens of farmers in Kukawa between January 12 and 13. “Boko Haram killed more than 31 ISWAP fighters, but the actual death toll could be higher,” a source stated. JAS militants overran ISWAP positions, seizing weapons and critical supplies before retreating.
Amid rising tensions, JAS militants from Bokorram Island are reportedly preparing for another offensive against ISWAP positions in Gemu and Mallam Karamti.
Counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama warned that further clashes are likely, particularly in Kukawa Local Government Area, as JAS escalates its campaign against ISWAP.
