Maiduguri, Borno State – A recent attack by the Islamic State of the West African Province (ISWAP) on reinforced troops in Arege community, Malam Fatori, has resulted in the death of two soldiers and multiple injuries.
The assailants targeted the troops with a Vehicle Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) over the weekend.
Fortunately, the advancing soldiers successfully repelled the attack and neutralized the suicide bomber.
Meanwhile, reports have emerged suggesting that scores of ISWAP fighters and their families met a tragic fate in Damasak town, Borno State.
It is believed that they drowned while attempting to flee across a river to Niger Republic.
These desperate escape attempts were prompted by the ongoing military operation in the area, which posed a significant threat to their survival.
Intelligence sources have revealed that the terrorists attempted to evade the advancing troops and avoid being eliminated on the battlefield.
Unfortunately, many women and children who were unable to swim lost their lives in the process.
Recovery efforts are still ongoing as more bodies are being discovered.
The recent incidents highlight the intensified attacks by ISWAP, particularly the use of VBIEDs and mines to impede the incursion of troops into their strongholds.
However, Operation Hadin Kai and the Multinational Joint Task Force have been making progress in combating the terrorist group.
In previous offensives, they eliminated 55 ISWAP terrorists, including high-ranking commanders, and recovered significant amounts of weapons, vehicles, and motorcycles.
The situation remains tense in Borno State as security forces continue their efforts to counter the terrorist threat and restore peace to the region.
