ISWAP vs Boko Haram: Intense Battle in Borno Claims Multiple Lives

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) engaged in a bloody conflict in Borno State on Friday, with significant losses on both sides.
Toumbun Gini and Toumbun Ali camps were the targets of a well-coordinated offensive by JAS militants against ISWAP strongholds in the Abadam Local Government Area, according to sources who spoke to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama.
The attack, which started early on February 14, involved JAS militants landing on several watercraft vessels and fighting ISWAP forces until late at night.

High-ranking leaders were killed
Several senior ISWAP commanders, especially those from the Buduma ethnic group, were killed in the battle. One of the prominent individuals slain is said to have participated in the heinous slaughter of numerous farmers in Kukawa on January 12 and 13.
“Over 31 ISWAP fighters were killed by Boko Haram, but the death toll may be higher,” a source revealed. After overrunning ISWAP positions and capturing weapons and necessary equipment, JAS fighters fled.

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A follow-up attack on ISWAP strongholds in Gemu and Mallam Karamti is allegedly being planned by JAS militants from Bokorram Island, marking a further escalation.

As JAS stepped up its campaign against ISWAP, Makama said additional conflicts are anticipated, especially in the Kukawa Local Government Area.