Nigerian Military Kills Over 70 ISWAP Fighters In Fresh Airstrike In Borno State

A recent airstrike by the Nigerian Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Borno State has killed approximately 70 Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters and commanders.

The strategic airstrikes were conducted against ISWAP camps in southern Lake Chad. The attack resulted in significant militant casualties.

The targeted strikes on November 6 focused on camps led by notorious ISWAP commander Usman, specifically hitting locations at Kwallaram and Arainna Ciki islands near Jibilarram in the Marte Local Government Area.

Impeccable sources relayed the ground assessment report that the attack was successful, confirming that over 70 ISWAP fighters were neutralised at the Kwallaram camp.

One of the sources, Zagazola Makama, noted that while the exact number of casualties at Arainna Ciki remained uncertain, several terrorists were also killed in the coordinated assault.

The airstrikes could be described as arguably one of the most successful strikes undertaken by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai.

Meanwhile, following the strike, on November 7, reports emerged that ISWAP had mobilised additional fighters from its Sambisa wing, regrouping in the areas of Kusuma and Sigir in the Gamboru Ngala Local Government Area.

Both locations are within the territory under Usman Russia’s control, with mobilised fighters reportedly including elements from Sambisa Forest and northern border areas of Cameroon. 

The group’s intent remains unknown.