- 40 Killed As ISWAP, Boko Haram Clash In Sambisa Forest
- Equipment destroyed as insurgent factions battle for control
- Security forces monitoring situation amid ongoing intelligence operations
No fewer than 40 fighters have been reported killed following a clash between rival insurgent factions, Islamic State West Africa Province and Boko Haram, in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.
Security sources said the confrontation occurred within the forest axis, a long established stronghold of armed groups in the North East.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that according to the sources, the clash took place on April 27 at about 2:47 p.m., after exchanges between fighters operating around Bama Local Government Area and the wider Sambisa region.
A Boko Haram fighter identified as “MANYA” reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that his group engaged ISWAP fighters around the Gazwa camps.
He was quoted as saying that about 40 ISWAP fighters were killed during the confrontation.
Sources further disclosed that several motorcycles and bicycles used by the insurgents were seized or destroyed during the fighting.
Some of the equipment were reportedly set ablaze, dealing a blow to the logistics capacity of the affected faction.
In a response, an ISWAP linked affiliate acknowledged the clash, describing it as “good work” while offering prayers for the safety of its members.
Security sources noted that the continued rivalry between the factions has weakened their operational cohesion within the Sambisa axis.
They added that security forces are expected to take advantage of the infighting to further degrade the capabilities of the groups and limit their movement within the forest.
Authorities are also said to be monitoring the situation closely as intelligence gathering continues on developments linked to the incident.
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