Celebration Rocks JAS Boko Haram Camp Over ISWAP Defeat in Kukawa
By: Zagazola Makama
Celebrations have erupted within the camp of Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunnah Lid-Da’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS), also known as Boko Haram, following the failed attack by their rivals, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), on Nigerian troops in Kukawa.
JAS mocked ISWAP’s failed operation, accusing them of lacking the strategic prowess demonstrated by JAS in past victories.
In one of their communication channels JAS shared images purporting to show neutralized ISWAP fighters and destroyed equipment. These images, verified to have been taken from the Kukawa battlefield, reflect the heavy losses suffered by ISWAP.
The celebrations within JAS over ISWAP’s defeat highlight the ongoing rivalry between the two insurgent factions. JAS has sought to assert dominance in the Lake Chad region, while ISWAP continues to struggle with coordination and execution of large scale attacks.
ISWAP’s Failed Propaganda Effort
ISWAP initially claimed victory in the Kukawa attack, falsely reporting heavy losses inflicted on Nigerian troops and boasting about seized military assets. However, Nigerian forces, in a show of superior coordination and resilience, successfully repelled the attack.
During the battle, 12 ISWAP fighters were confirmed killed, seven VBIEDs were destroyed two of which were neutralized before they could inflict damage and 40 motorcycles were recovered. Equipment seized from the insurgents included five AK-47 rifles, one Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG), two anti-aircraft guns, and ammunition, including 152 Shilka rounds.
