Troops repel series of attacks by ISWAP in Borno, terrorists suffer casualties, as Borno residents celebrate

By: Zagazola Makama

Nigerian troops have successfully repelled coordinated attacks by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on multiple military positions across Borno State, including Maiduguri, Damboa, Baga, and Buratai, early Saturday, security sources confirmed.

At about 12:00 a.m., ISWAP attempted to attack troop positions on the outskirts of Maiduguri near Dala Ajilari Cross. The incursion was met with swift resistance by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with joint forces from Police Crack Squad, CJTF, NSCDC, and local hunters. Residents reported sporadic gunfire and significant military activity on the city outskirts.

At about 1:10 a.m., insurgents launched an assault on the 135 Special Forces Battalion in Buratai, Biu LGA, engaging troops in heavy gunfire for nearly two hours. 

The attackers reportedly attempted to breach the military facility using multiple assault groups supported by heavy weapons and technical vehicles. Troops mounted a robust defence, forcing the insurgents to withdraw. A fire broke out in one of the military facilities after a projectile struck the building.

Simultaneously, ISWAP targeted the Brigade Headquarters and positions in the Baga–Mile 4 axis, including locations linked to the Special Boat Service (SBS), which secures Lake Chad waterways. Insurgents employed gun trucks, motorcycles, and rocket-propelled grenades in attempts to overwhelm defensive positions. Troops responded with coordinated firepower, inflicting heavy casualties on the terrorists and forcing them to disengage.

A source in Baga said, “We inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorists. The battle began at about 1:10 a.m. and lasted nearly two hours. Many of them were killed. They tried to remove some of their dead, but several corpses were left behind.”

The successful defence has sparked celebrations among Borno residents, who came out in large numbers to cheer troops in Maiduguri. 

Residents expressed relief and renewed confidence in the military’s ability to secure their communities. The Youths  joined in spontaneous celebrations and chanting support for the troops.