‘Seven ISWAP terrorists killed’ in IED explosion in Borno

At least seven members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been reportedly killed in an explosion while assembling improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Borno state.

Zagazola Makama, a counterinsurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, reports that the incident occurred on December 30 between Ba’anfani and Koleram in the far Lake Chad basin of Borno.

“Sources disclosed that the explosion happened during the assembly of the IEDs, which the terrorists likely intended to use for attacks in the region,” Makama said.

“The Lake Chad Basin has been a hotspot for ISWAP activities, with the group frequently resorting to IEDs as part of its terror tactics in a desperate attempt.”

BOKO HARAM TERRORISTS DESTROY ‘RESETTLEMENT BUILDINGS’ IN BORNO

Meanwhile, Makama said suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked Dalwa village in Borno on December 18.

The publication said the terrorists destroyed houses being constructed by the state government in the village, located 10 kilometres from Maiduguri, the state capital, along the Damboa-Molai road.

Intelligence sources quoted by Makama noted that the attackers “struck under the cover of darkness, targeting structures meant to aid the resettlement of displaced persons”.

Makama added that the housing project, initiated as part of the government’s resettlement strategy, has faced repeated attacks.

“The December 18 assault marks the third such incident in one month, with the previous two involving IEDs,” the publication said.

“The attacks have caused significant damage and disrupted efforts to resettle families displaced by years of insurgency.

“Sources suggest that the terrorists are determined to frustrate these resettlement initiatives.”