The Nigerian Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) has successfully conducted airstrikes resulting in the elimination of over 70 fighters and commanders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State.
The strikes, carried out on November 6, targeted ISWAP camps in the southern Lake Chad region, specifically at Kwallaram and Arainna Ciki islands near Jibilarram in Marte Local Government Area. These camps were reportedly under the control of a prominent ISWAP commander known as Usman.
Credible sources on the ground confirmed that the operation dealt a significant blow to the group, with over 70 fighters neutralized at Kwallaram camp. While the exact number of casualties at Arainna Ciki remains unclear, reports indicate that several terrorists were also killed during the strikes.
Zagazola Makama, a trusted source, described the airstrikes as among the most effective operations conducted by the Nigerian Air Force under OPHK.
Following the assault, reports on November 7 revealed that ISWAP began mobilizing reinforcements, including fighters from its Sambisa Forest faction and elements from northern Cameroon. These reinforcements reportedly gathered in the Kusuma and Sigir areas of Gamboru Ngala Local Government Area, territories still controlled by Usman Russia, a senior ISWAP figure.
The exact intent behind the group’s regrouping efforts remains uncertain.