A fresh clash has reportedly erupted between two rival terrorist factions in Borno State, with fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) allegedly launching a deadly ambush against members of Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), commonly known as Boko Haram.
According to security analyst on Thursday, the attack took place around the Gargash area near Bula Murge in Bama Local Government Area, where ISWAP fighters reportedly carried out a surprise assault on the rival group.
The report obtained by The News Chronicle indicated that the attack resulted in heavy casualties, with several senior JAS commanders feared killed. Those reportedly affected include Abu Ubaida, Modu Kori, Alhaji Modu, Mure, Zarkawi, Sheriff and Modu Maye.
Intercepted communications reportedly showed that surviving JAS fighters began relocating their women and children to Bula Daloye after their camps were overrun.
The report further stated that the settlements of Bula Murge and Nguro Bafuye, previously occupied by the JAS faction, were set ablaze during the assault, destroying camps and logistics facilities.
Security sources believe the confrontation has dealt a significant blow to the JAS faction, potentially creating an opportunity for the Nigerian military to intensify ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the area.
Troops operating around Miyanti, Bama, Kumshe and surrounding communities have reportedly been directed to sustain offensive operations to prevent either insurgent faction from regrouping or establishing new bases.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian military had not issued an official statement confirming the reported casualties or details of the clash.
