Bandits murder military officer, Yohana

Scores die as B’Haram-ISWAP factional clash

Captain Ibrahim Yohana of the Nigerian Army has been killed by bandits. 
   
The news of the death of the Kaduna State native is coming just nine months after his wedding.
  
The late officer, acknowledged for his bravery and commitment, has been described as a hero by those who knew him in his lifetime.
 
A security media source, Zagazola Makama, said: “His untimely death is a painful reminder of the dangers faced by members of the Nigerian military in their relentless fight against the growing security challenges in the country.”
   

IN a similar vein, an intense battle between Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and a Boko Haram faction has resulted in significant casualties and territorial shifts in the North Eastern Lake Chad region of Borno State.
   
According to counter-insurgency expert and security source, Zagazola Makama, no fewer than 100 fighters from both factions were killed in the clashes, which occurred on the island of Toumbun Gini in Abadam council area 10 days ago.
  
Realible sources revealed that the Bakoura (aka Abu Umaima)-led JAS Buduma fighters launched a surprise attack on the ISWAP faction positioned on the shores of their headquarters at Toumbun Gini, resulting in severe losses for ISWAP, with over 90 members killed. 
   
JAS lost 10 fighters, with others fleeing with bullet wounds.
   
The JAS Buduma fighters captured weapons and equipment during the battle, and subsequently seized control of nearby areas from ISWAP, including Toumbun Kare and Toumbun Rogo in Abadam council area.

The latest clash is part of a series of deadly encounters between the rival factions.

On July 6, 2024, JAS fighters launched a deadly attack on ISWAP positions in Kwatar Shalla Shuwari, killing 16 fighters and capturing eight water vessels, several weapons, and a large amount of cash in Naira.
   
The seized items were later delivered to the Boko Haram leader, Abu Umaima, at Alli Modulla Camp, Diffa, Republic of Niger, the source disclosed. 
   
In another encounter on July 8, 2024, in Dawashi Kwalta, over 20 ISWAP elements were neutralised, with others drowning while escaping via the river. Several items were also seized.
   
Currently, investigations revealed that JAS controls most parts of the area, but the situation remains fluid and volatile, with ISWAP planning a reprisal.