, commonly referred to as Boko Haram, celebrated){kind=link}
The insurgent group Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunnah Lid-Da’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS), commonly referred to as Boko Haram, celebrated the failure of a rival faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), in an attempted assault on Nigerian military forces in Kukawa, Borno State.
According to Zagazola a counter insurgency analyst, JAS ridiculed ISWAP for their unsuccessful operation, claiming it demonstrated a lack of strategic competence compared to their own past successes.
Zagazola revealed that through their communication channels, JAS shared images reportedly taken from the Kukawa battlefield, showing neutralized ISWAP fighters and destroyed equipment, underscoring the heavy losses sustained by their rivals.
The event reflects the ongoing rivalry between JAS and ISWAP as both factions vie for dominance in the Lake Chad region.
JAS continues to assert its strength while ISWAP faces challenges in coordinating and executing large-scale operations.
Nigerian forces repel ISWAP attack
Despite ISWAP’s initial propaganda claiming victory, Nigerian troops successfully repelled the attack with superior strategy and resilience.
The military reported killing 12 ISWAP fighters, destroying seven Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), and recovering 40 motorcycles.
Key weapons and ammunition seized included five AK-47 rifles, one Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG), two anti-aircraft guns, and 152 Shilka rounds.
This failed assault further highlights ISWAP’s struggles in executing coordinated offensives, while Nigerian forces maintain their stronghold in the region.