Exclusive: ISWAP/ Boko Haram factions clash in Sambisa Forest, 40 reported killed — Sources
By: Zagazola Makama
A deadly clash between rival terrorist factions, Boko Haram and ISWAP, in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State, has resulted in significant casualties and destruction of logistics assets.
Zagazola Makama gathered from sources that on April 27 at about 2:47 p.m., a conversations between two suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP affiliates operating around Bama Local Government Area and the Sambisa general area.
According to the sources, a Boko Haram fighter identified as “MANYA” claimed that his group engaged ISWAP fighters during clashes around the Gazwa camps within the forest.
He was quoted as saying that about 40 ISWAP fighters were killed during the confrontation, while motorcycles and bicycles were seized and others destroyed by fire.
In response, the ISWAP-linked interlocutor reportedly acknowledged the development, describing it as “good work” and offering prayers for protection of their members.
Security sources said that the ongoing violent rivalries between extremist factions operating within the Sambisa axis, which continues to weaken their operational cohesion.
They added that troops are expected to exploit the situation to further degrade the capabilities of both groups and deny them freedom of movement within the forest belt.
Authorities said monitoring and intelligence operations are ongoing, while further details are being assessed.
