On Friday, a ferocious fight erupted in Borno State between rival terrorist factions Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), with high deaths on both sides.
According to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, JAS fighters conducted a concerted offensive on ISWAP strongholds in Abadam Local Government Area, specifically targeting camps at Toumbun Gini and Toumbun Ali.
The assault began in the early hours of February 14, with JAS militants arriving on many watercraft vessels and battling ISWAP forces in fierce action that lasted until late evening.
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High-Level Commanders Killed
Several high-ranking ISWAP commanders were killed in the battle, most of whom were from the Buduma ethnic group. A key person was killed during a savage massacre of farmers in Kukawa on January 12-13.
“Boko Haram killed more than 31 ISWAP fighters, but the death toll could be higher,” according to one source. JAS forces overran ISWAP positions, taking guns and vital equipment before leaving.
JAS militants from Bokorram Island are reportedly planning a follow-up attack on ISWAP positions in Gemu and Mallam Karamti.
Makama predicts further conflicts, especially in Kukawa Local Government Area, as JAS’s campaign against ISWAP gains momentum.
