A violent confrontation broke out between rival insurgent factions in Borno State on Friday as militants aligned with the Bakoura-led Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) launched an offensive on Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) camps in Abadam Local Government Area (LGA).
Counterinsurgency expert Zagazola Makama reported on Saturday that reliable sources disclosed the attack, which began in the early hours of February 14, was directed at ISWAP camps in Toumbun Gini and Toumbun Ali.
“JAS fighters, reportedly mounted on multiple waterborne vessels, engaged ISWAP elements in an intense battle that lasted until late evening,” the report stated.
According to sources, several senior ISWAP commanders, particularly from the Buduma ethnic group, were among those killed.
One of the slain figures was allegedly involved in the mass killing of farmers in Kukawa between January 12 and 13.
The sources added that after overrunning ISWAP positions, JAS fighters seized weapons and equipment before withdrawing. “Boko Haram killed more than 31 ISWAP, but there could be more,” a source revealed.
Reports indicate that JAS militants from Bokorram Island have mobilized for a follow-up offensive targeting ISWAP strongholds in Gemu and Mallam Karamti.
Zagazola noted that further clashes are expected, particularly in Kukawa LGA, as JAS fighters continue their campaign against ISWAP.
