Jubilation as troops kill 3 top ISWAP commanders during failed Mallam Fatori attack

There was jubilation in military camps across Borno State on Thursday following the successful repelling of an Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) attack on Mallam Fatori in Abadam Local Government Area.

During the fierce encounter, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, backed by the Air Component, eliminated three senior ISWAP commanders.

The Nigerian Army confirmed the development on Thursday through its official social media channels.

“Three prominent Boko Haram/ISWAP leaders Amir Abu Ali, Amir Ibunu, and Amir Abu Waldume eliminated in Mallam Fatori and Buratai fierce gun battles,” the army said.

Providing further details, security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama cited sources who said the commanders were killed during a four-hour gun battle that took place near an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Mallam Fatori.

According to the sources, the deceased insurgent leaders held key positions within ISWAP’s operational structure. One of them, Abu Ali Wadume, was reportedly in charge of terrorist activities in the Kerenoa axis near the Nigeria–Niger border.

The coordinated assault began in the early hours of Wednesday, with the insurgents launching their offensive from the Kaniram axis.

“They advanced in large numbers using armed drones and heavy weaponry, including Automatic Grenade Launchers (AGLs), but were met with stiff resistance from ground troops, supported by mortar and tank fire.

“Troops were able to repel the assault after intense fighting, forcing the attackers to retreat in disarray.

“At least 12 terrorists were confirmed killed, with the recovery of seven AK-47 rifles, three general purpose machine guns (GPMGs), two rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), and several explosive devices,” Makama said.

Sources added that exploitation and battle damage assessment are ongoing.