Scores Killed as Boko Hara ISWAP Engage in Deadly Sambisa Clashes

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A violent week-long confrontation between Boko Haram and its rival faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), has reportedly left numerous fighters dead across several parts of the Sambisa Forest region in Borno State.

Security sources informed Zagazola Makama that the renewed conflict erupted on January 3 after ISWAP launched a coordinated attack on Boko Haram positions around the Ali Ngulde area of the Mandara Mountains.

The offensive, according to the sources, was spearheaded by ISWAP commanders identified as Jundullah and Ibn Hataf, who led fighters into Boko Haram-controlled camps in what was described as a well-planned assault.

However, the attackers were met with fierce resistance as Boko Haram militants mounted a counter-ambush under the leadership of a field commander known as Abu-Rijal, also referred to as Ba-Sulhu.

Reports indicate that dozens of ISWAP members were killed in the confrontation, while several others were captured alive, along with various weapons seized by Boko Haram forces.

Footage that resurfaced during the week and was reportedly obtained by Zagazola Makama showed ISWAP captives being executed in front of fellow fighters, accompanied by boasts of victory from Boko Haram members.

The video highlighted the extreme brutality that has long defined the ongoing rivalry between the two terrorist organisations operating within the forested hideouts of the Lake Chad region.

During the early stages of the clashes, several heavy weapons were reportedly recovered, including AK-47 rifles, a general-purpose machine gun, an anti-aircraft weapon and large quantities of ammunition.

However, the upper hand reportedly shifted a few days later. On January 6, ISWAP fighters were said to have carried out a retaliatory operation on a Boko Haram base located in the Sabil Huda area.

This triggered an intense exchange of gunfire lasting several hours. Security sources reported that ISWAP eventually captured the location, killing at least 12 Boko Haram fighters and acquiring additional weapons.

In the aftermath, Boko Haram family members—women and children included—were said to have been moved away from the contested camps to safer areas around the Yale General axis.

Both groups also reportedly carried out night operations in an attempt to track fleeing fighters, though no new verified clashes had occurred as of Wednesday.

Sources noted that the resurgence of hostilities reflects deep-rooted tensions stemming from ideological disputes, leadership struggles and competition for control of territory, resources and manpower.

Both factions are said to be regrouping and re-arming, raising concerns about the possibility of more violence in the near future.