Military Forces Thwart ISWAP Attack in Borno State
The Operation Hadin Kai forces successfully repelled an attack by suspected fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on a military installation located in the Kross Kawwa Local Government Area of Borno State. During the confrontation, military personnel neutralized a terrorist photographer and recovered materials indicating foreign involvement.
Details of the Assault
The attack unfolded around 10:20 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, when insurgents sought to infiltrate the military base under the cover of darkness. The Nigerian military reported that the alert troops from the 3rd Sector 19th Brigade detected the terrorists early in their advance and mounted a swift response, compelling them to abandon their assault.
Military Assessment of the Situation
In a statement on Sunday, Captain Mohamed Goni, the acting military intelligence officer for Operation Hadin Kai, emphasized that the successful defense of the position underscores the military’s vigilance, readiness for combat, and overall operational efficiency. The military continues to work to restrict terrorist activities throughout the northeastern region.
Intelligence Findings Post-Assault
Gathered intelligence following the attempted assault revealed that the terrorists aimed to loot cholera medical supplies from military stores. This development aligns with recent reports of a cholera outbreak within ISWAP camps, further substantiating military intelligence operations.
Significance of the Recovery
Among those killed in the conflict was a terrorist photographer. Troops retrieved a Sony video camera containing what they described as operational footage and propaganda materials. Preliminary forensic analysis indicated that the failed operation was orchestrated by four senior ISWAP commanders, with assistance from three foreign terrorist sponsors.
Foreign Involvement in ISWAP Operations
According to Goni, the suspected foreign operatives include a Palestinian Arab known as Abu Ishaq, the general leader of ISWAP, and a Moroccan Arab identified as Abu Tayba, who is believed to be a doctor associated with the terrorist group. The identity of another unidentified Arab operative is still under investigation. These findings reinforce the ongoing concerns regarding ISWAP’s reliance on foreign expertise and cross-border terrorist networks.
Military Gains and Challenges Ahead
In addition to the individuals accounted for, military personnel also recovered terrorist uniforms, various rounds of PKT and 7.62mm special ammunition, and other combat gear during follow-up operations. Satellite imagery and reliable human intelligence track the escape of insurgents, who reportedly evacuated the bodies of their deceased comrades while others fled with gunshot wounds.
Ongoing Operational Successes
Two soldiers sustained injuries in the engagement and were subsequently airlifted for advanced medical care, where they are now reported to be in stable condition. The military characterized the incident as another significant operational success, emphasizing that the thwarted attack illustrates the increasing challenges ISWAP faces in coordinating strikes against forces in the region. The military reaffirmed Operation Hadin Kai’s dedication to executing offensive operations aimed at protecting vulnerable communities and dismantling terrorist networks until peace is restored throughout northeastern Nigeria.
