Over 23 fighters of Boko Haram and the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) have reportedly lost their lives during clashes between the two camps in the Sambisa forest area of Borno state.
A counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama report that the brutal face-off occurred around the Chingolo area of Bama local government, where Boko Haram fighters attacked ISWAP members advancing into the area.
Makama while quoting security sources said that the fighting was part of a renewed wave of hostilities between the two rival terrorist groups that started about two days ago.
“A video obtained by Zagazola indicated that the clashes reportedly involved sustained exchanges of fire as both factions sought to consolidate their positions and prevent the other from expanding its influence within the forest,” the publication said.
“Preliminary intelligence indicates that more than 23 terrorists have been killed on both sides since the latest round of fighting began, although the exact casualty figures for each faction could not immediately be independently verified.
“The development is believed to reflect the continuing rivalry between Boko Haram and ISWAP over territory, access routes, resources and control of fighters operating in the Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas.”
The security expert further said the confrontation has weakened the terrorist groups and disrupted their activities in an area that has historically served as a major operating environment for insurgents in Borno.
The publication said security forces were closely monitoring developments and exploiting available intelligence on the rival factions’ movements and activities.
“The military has continued to target terrorist concentrations, logistics networks and hideouts as part of efforts to degrade the insurgents and deny them freedom of action,” Makama said.
The counter-insurgency publication said security officials have urged communities in areas surrounding the Sambisa forest to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to the authorities.
