Scores Feared Dead as Boko Haram, ISWAP Clash in Sambisa, Mandara Mountains
Scores of fighters have reportedly been killed following renewed clashes between rival factions of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in parts of Sambisa Forest and the Mandara Mountains in Borno State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the week-long violence began on January 3, after ISWAP fighters, led by two commanders identified as Jundullah and Ibn Hataf, launched coordinated attacks on Boko Haram camps around the Ali Ngulde axis of the Mandara Mountains.
The offensive reportedly met strong resistance, as Boko Haram fighters mounted counter-attacks under the coordination of a field commander known as Abu-Rijal, also called Ba-Sulhu. Dozens of ISWAP fighters were said to have been killed during the encounters, while others were captured and weapons seized.
Sources disclosed that several arms, including AK-47 rifles, a general-purpose machine gun, an anti-aircraft gun and assorted ammunition, were recovered during the initial clashes.
However, the situation reportedly shifted days later. On January 6, ISWAP fighters were said to have launched a retaliatory assault on a Boko Haram position in the Sabil Huda axis, resulting in hours of intense fighting. At least 12 Boko Haram fighters were reportedly killed, with additional weapons seized by ISWAP.
The fighting reportedly forced the displacement of Boko Haram families, including women and children, from contested camps to areas around the Yale General axis. Sources also indicated that night operations were carried out to track fleeing fighters, although no further confirmed engagements were recorded as of midweek.
The renewed clashes highlight the long-standing rivalry between the two groups, driven by ideological differences, leadership disputes and competition for territory, resources and fighters. Both factions are said to be regrouping and rearming amid fears of further confrontations.
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