The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorist group, appears to be waxing strong again, as it has claimed responsibility for a recent attack on a Civilian Joint Task Force base in Borno State.
The terror organization in a statement said it seized various weapons, including 7.62x39mm AK magazines and ammunition, during the brutal raid.
The statement also included pictures showing ISWAP members opening fire indiscriminately at the base.
Moreover, this comes after the terror group killed a yet-to-be confirmed number of Nigerian soldiers, with some still reportedly missing following an attack on a Forward Operating Base in the Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The incident, according to security source occurred on Saturday, January 4, 2025.
The security source revealed that the terrorists set ablaze many buildings and military operational vehicles during the attack that lasted over two hours.
“25 Taskforce Base was attacked during the weekend with so many casualties, so far we have recovered over seven bodies.
“The terror group invaded the camp FOB Sabon Gari around 4am on Saturday, using various weapons”, the security source revealed.
Also, ISWAP in a statement on Monday claimed responsibility for the attack.
The group said its members killed many soldiers while two armoured tanks and 10 armoured vehicles were set ablaze.
It is been reported that the recent attacks may be a move by the terrorists to counter the Nigeria military’s narrative that Islamist insurgent fighters are retreating.
President Bola Tinubu stated in October 2024 that his administration was making serious progress in the war on terror and banditry, with the killing of many key Boko Haram and bandit commanders within the first year of his administration.
The military authorities also reported that many insurgents have surrendered.
Since the death of Abubakar Shekau, ISWAP has been consolidating its dominance in locations around Lake Chad.
The sect’s membership has swollen with the defection of hundreds of Boko Haram fighters under Shekau.