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Scores of terrorists killed Rivalry Deepens Between ISWAP and JAS in Borno Amid Escalating Clashes
Scores of terrorists killed Rivalry Deepens Between ISWAP and JAS in Borno Amid Escalating Clashes
By: Zagazola Makama
A series of brutal clashes between two rival terrorist groups, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihad (JAS), has erupted in the southern Lake Chad Basin Region (LCRBA) of Borno State, underscoring an escalating power struggle between the factions.
The deadly encounter began on Sept 15, when ISWAP launched a surprise midnight attack on JAS elements in the Gurnuwa and Laraba Mairari areas. The assault, however, backfired, as JAS militants, despite being asleep, managed to regroup and severely overwhelm the ISWAP fighters, killing scores of them in the process.
The ISWAP militants fled the scene in disarray, abandoning several weapons, including PKT machine guns, GPMGs, and AK-47 rifles. Personal belongings, including shoes and gear, were left behind, further highlighting the chaotic nature of the retreat.
The infighting, however intensified on September 16, 2024, following a violent ambush by JAS on ISWAP elements moving rustled cattle near Lingir, along the Monguno-Kukawa axis.
Impeccable sources told Zagazola Makama that the ISWAP militants were moving rustled cattle from the southern LCRBA, allegedly destined for the Timbuktu Farouk Triangle in Damboa, when they were ambushed by JAS forces. The encounter left many ISWAP terrorists killed with surviving members abandoning their stolen cattle and several weapons, which were seized by JAS fighters.
ISWAP’s Response and Probing Attack
Under the leadership of Usman Russia, ISWAP vowed swift retaliation. Reinforcements consisting of fighters on motorcycles and a Land Cruiser jeep were dispatched from Andakar toward Gurnuwa. Later that evening, at approximately 10:00 PM, the group emerged on the Marte-Monguno road near Maiduguri, sporadically firing in what is believed to be a probing attack on military positions around Monguno. Although no casualties were reported, the incident heightened concerns about a larger offensive aimed at reclaiming the lost weapons and cattle.
The skirmish on the road to Marte signals ISWAP’s intention to reassert control, not only over the stolen resources but also its dominance in the region. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the specific aim of the probing attack, military and security forces remain on high alert, particularly around the Monguno and Kerenoa-Marte axis.
Anticipation of a Larger Battle in the Coming Days
The JAS faction, aware of ISWAP’s intentions to launch revenge attacks, has reportedly fortified its positions at Dabar Masara and Dabar Gajere, located along the Kukawa-Monguno boundary.
Intelligence sources indicate that the two groups, now stationed just two kilometers apart, are bracing for a potentially large-scale battle that could unfold in the coming 24 hours. The likelihood of a confrontation in these areas is high, with both sides preparing for a fight that could lead to heavy casualties and further destabilization in the region.
Scores of terrorists killed Rivalry Deepens Between ISWAP and JAS in Borno Amid Escalating Clashes
Suspected militia kill motorcyclist along Nyong-Bodel road in Plateau
By Zagazola Makama
An unidentified person was killed by suspected militias along the Nyong-Bodel road in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 3:50 p.m. on Sept. 4, 2026.
According to the sources, troops of Sector 5, Operation Enduring Peace, deployed at Bodel, responded to a report of an attack and killing of the victim along the road.
The troops arrived at the scene and discovered the victim’s corpse alongside his motorcycle, while the suspected attackers fled after sighting the troops.
The corpse was evacuated to a mortuary, while efforts are ongoing to establish the identity of the victim and apprehend the assailants.
Security agencies are also intensifying patrols and surveillance along the route to prevent further attacks and restore confidence among residents and road users.
Suspected militia kill motorcyclist along Nyong-Bodel road in Plateau
Troops launch rescue operation after hospital matron kidnapped in Plateau
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 5, Operation Enduring Peace, have launched a rescue operation following the abduction of Mrs Sarah Dalang, a matron at Cottage Hospital, Bokkos, Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 2:20 p.m. on Sept. 4, 2026.
According to the sources, the troops responded to a report of the kidnapping and mobilised alongside other security agencies to commence search and rescue operations.
The security personnel conducted operations around suspected hideouts of the kidnappers but no contact was established with the criminals.
Efforts are ongoing to track the kidnappers, locate the victim and secure her safe release.
Security agencies have continued to intensify operations across Bokkos and adjoining areas to disrupt criminal activities and protect residents.
Troops launch rescue operation after hospital matron kidnapped in Plateau
Troops neutralise terrorist, recover four motorcycles in Katsina
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have neutralised a terrorist and recovered four motorcycles and other items during a dawn offensive operation in Dan Musa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation was conducted on Sept. 4, 2026, following credible intelligence on the presence of terrorists around the Yantumaki Forest area.
According to security sources, the troops launched a coordinated offensive against the terrorists and engaged them with superior firepower, forcing the surviving elements to flee into the surrounding bushes.
During the subsequent exploitation of the area, the troops confirmed the neutralisation of one terrorist and recovered four motorcycles, one mobile phone and five empty intravenous drip containers.
The recovered medical containers were suspected to have been used in treating wounded terrorists operating in the area.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts by Operation Fansan Yamma to sustain pressure on terrorist networks, degrade their operational capabilities and deny them freedom of movement within the Joint Operations Area.
The theatre has also urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to support ongoing operations and facilitate the eradication of terrorist elements across the Joint Operations Area.
Troops neutralise terrorist, recover four motorcycles in Katsina
Suspected militia kill motorcyclist along Nyong-Bodel road in Plateau
Troops launch rescue operation after hospital matron kidnapped in Plateau
Troops neutralise terrorist, recover four motorcycles in Katsina
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