Boko Haram Faction Overruns ISWAP Camps, Kills Top Commanders and 31 Fighters

A deadly clash between Boko Haram and ISWAP has left several top commanders and 31 fighters dead as Boko Haram forces take over ISWAP camps in a violent offensive.

On Friday, a violent clash erupted between opposing insurgent factions in Borno State when militants loyal to the Bakoura-led Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) initiated an attack on Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) camps located in Abadam Local Government Area.

Counterinsurgency expert Zagazola Makama reported on Saturday that credible sources revealed the attack, initiated in the early hours of February 14, targeted ISWAP camps located in Toumbun Gini and Toumbun Ali.

According to the report, JAS fighters mounted on several waterborne vessels engaged ISWAP elements in a fierce battle that continued into the late evening.

Sources report that several senior ISWAP commanders, especially those from the Buduma ethnic group, were among the casualties. It is alleged that one of these individuals had been involved in the mass killing of farmers in Kukawa on January 12 and 13.

According to the sources, after JAS fighters overwhelmed ISWAP positions, they captured weapons and equipment before retreating. A source disclosed that “Boko Haram killed over 31 members of ISWAP, although there might be more.”

According to reports, JAS militants from Bokorram Island have mobilized for a subsequent attack aimed at ISWAP strongholds in Gemu and Mallam Karamti.

Zagazola indicated that additional conflicts are anticipated, especially in Kukawa LGA, as JAS combatants persist in their offensive against ISWAP.