Fresh intelligence has indicated acute shortages of food, fuel, and essential supplies among fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province in parts of Borno State, as intensified counter-terrorism operations continue across the region. ️
The development comes amid sustained pressure by troops of Operation Hadin Kai and other security agencies targeting insurgent enclaves, supply routes, and logistics networks within Borno and the wider Lake Chad Basin.
Security sources revealed that ISWAP fighters operating in camps within Mafa Local Government Area, particularly around the Dikwa axis and the Sambisa Forest, are grappling with severe logistical constraints that are beginning to erode their operational effectiveness and morale.
At the centre of the situation is a reported distress communication from a senior fighter, identified as Abu Fatima, believed to be operating around the Hamza Gajirom area of Dikwa.
According to intelligence reports, he lamented that members of his group had not eaten for two days due to lack of food. He also cited shortages of fuel, tyre repair materials, and recharge cards required for communication.
Further reports indicate that an ISWAP commander based within Sambisa Forest acknowledged the challenges, stating he had been directed to check on the group but was unable to establish contact due to poor telecommunications network coverage.
The commander reportedly admitted that fighters in his own camp were also awaiting fuel supplies, highlighting the widespread nature of the logistical difficulties.
Sources stressed that fuel scarcity is particularly critical because it affects mobility, resupply operations, and the ability to launch coordinated attacks or retreat under pressure. Once mobility is constrained, insurgent movements become predictable and vulnerable.
Intelligence also suggests the affected fighters are unable to relocate due to lack of fuel and the absence of nearby civilian communities from which they could source supplies, increasing their isolation.
However, reports point to internal contradictions within the group. Despite the shortages, a fighter identified as Ibn Bukar allegedly received a new motorcycle and rifle, raising concerns about selective distribution of resources.
Security sources warned that such disparities could create internal fractures within the insurgent ranks, especially at a time when survival is at stake.
Military operations in recent months have increasingly focused on cutting off insurgents’ access to food, fuel, and communication tools a strategy analysts say is beginning to yield tangible results.
However, the current shortages may push fighters toward desperate measures, including attempts to raid vulnerable communities or rely more heavily on local collaborators.
