The conflict between Boko Haram and the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) in the Lake Chad Basin has intensified, resulting in heavy casualties.
Over the past week, clashes between the two factions escalated on riverine islands in the Tumbums. ISWAP gained ground, dislodging Boko Haram rivals. The clashes primarily occurred in Garin Mallam Ya’u and Mallam Karamti, where ISWAP killed several Boko Haram fighters and seized motorcycles. Boko Haram retaliated by capturing ISWAP members in Tumbum Abuja.
ISWAP’s renewed aggression stems from fresh weapons supplies from Mali via Niger. Boko Haram’s Jama’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihad (JAS) faction deployed fighters to defensive positions before the clashes. ISWAP mobilized 130 fighters to Doron Kirta Wulgo.
The conflict escalated further as ISWAP pursued fleeing Boko Haram fighters, killing several, including top commander Khaid Allayi Gana. The intensity of the clashes led some Boko Haram fighters to surrender to Nigerien security forces.
The ongoing clashes have presented opportunities for government security forces to develop strategies to combat both groups and quell the terror in the Lake Chad Basin. CONTINUE READING
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