More than 23 terrorists have reportedly been killed in renewed clashes between rival Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province factions in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.
The latest confrontation reportedly occurred around the Chingolo axis of Bama Local Government Area, where Boko Haram fighters attacked ISWAP members advancing into the area.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the latest fighting was part of a renewed wave of hostilities between the rival terrorist groups that began about two days ago.
A video obtained by Zagazola Makama reportedly showed sustained exchanges of fire between the factions as they battled to consolidate their positions and prevent each other from expanding their influence within the forest.
Preliminary intelligence indicated that more than 23 terrorists had been killed on both sides since the latest round of fighting began. However, the exact casualty figures for each faction could not be independently verified.
The latest confrontation was reportedly triggered after ISWAP fighters moved into the Chingolo area, prompting Boko Haram members to launch an attack against them.
The development underscores the continuing rivalry between the two terrorist groups over territory, access routes, resources and control of fighters operating in the Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas.
The renewed fighting is also expected to disrupt the activities of the rival factions in an area that has historically served as a major operating environment for insurgents in the North-East.
Security sources said security forces were closely monitoring developments and exploiting available intelligence on the movements and activities of the rival groups.
The renewed infighting could further weaken both factions as security forces sustain counter-terrorism operations across the North-East, targeting terrorist concentrations, logistics networks and hideouts.
Communities around the Sambisa Forest have also been urged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security authorities.
Zagazola Makama understands that the situation remains fluid, with further clashes possible as the rival factions seek to reposition and reinforce their fighters in the affected area.
