Deadly Offensive Against ISWAP
At least 27 Nigerian soldiers lost their lives in a devastating jihadist suicide attack during a military offensive against Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants in the Timbuktu Triangle, a notorious stronghold straddling Borno and Yobe States.
The attack occurred on Friday night, as troops advanced into ISWAP territory under the cover of darkness. According to two military sources who spoke to AFP, the incident marks one of the deadliest suicide attacks on Nigerian soldiers in recent years.
Details of the Attack
- A suicide bomber, using a vehicle laden with explosives and concealed in thick foliage, rammed into a convoy of advancing troops at around 8:30 p.m. GMT.
- The attack resulted in 27 fatalities, including the commanding officer, with several soldiers seriously injured.
- The death toll could rise further, as many of the wounded soldiers remain in critical condition.
Challenges Faced by Troops
The advancing soldiers faced significant challenges, with one officer noting that poor visibility in the dark made it difficult for the troops to properly scan the surroundings.
ISWAP’s Tactics and Regional Impact
ISWAP, which splintered from Boko Haram in 2016, has become the dominant jihadist group in Nigeria’s northeast. The group is notorious for using suicide bombers, roadside mines, and vehicle-borne explosives to target military personnel and civilians.
- In July 2024, seven Nigerian soldiers were killed when their vehicle struck a landmine planted by ISWAP.
- The Timbuktu Triangle and Sambisa Forest remain key strongholds for the militants, where they launch operations and maintain control over strategic areas.
Casualties of a Prolonged Conflict
The insurgency, which began 15 years ago, has claimed 40,000 lives and displaced two million people from their homes. The violence has spread across Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, prompting the formation of a regional force to combat the militants.
Military Response and Ongoing Threat
While Nigerian military officials have yet to comment on the attack, the incident highlights the persistent threat posed by ISWAP in the region. As the Nigerian military intensifies its operations, the latest attack underscores the need for enhanced strategies to mitigate such devastating losses in the fight against insurgency.
Further updates on the situation are expected as investigations continue.
