Troops Successfully Thwart ISWAP Attack in Borno State
In a significant military operation, troops from the 19 Brigade, part of Sector 3 of Operation Hadin Kai, repelled an assault by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State. The attack, which took place around 10:20 PM on July 11, 2026, aimed to capitalize on the cover of darkness to infiltrate the troops' defenses. However, the Nigerian forces swiftly identified the hostile movements and executed a coordinated response that led to the attackers retreating in disarray, suffering substantial losses in the process.
According to the acting spokesman for the operation in the North East, Mohammed Goni, the troops' rapid detection and decisive action prevented the terrorists from successfully looting vital medical supplies amidst reports of a cholera outbreak within their ranks. This outbreak has reportedly led to the execution of infected members within the ISWAP enclaves. The military's swift response not only thwarted the immediate threat but also underscored their capability to respond effectively to evolving security challenges in the region.
Recovery of Sensitive Materials and Foreign Operatives Identified
During the confrontation, troops managed to neutralize the group's cameraman, leading to the recovery of a Sony camcorder. This device contained sensitive video footage documenting ISWAP's operational activities and propaganda efforts. Preliminary forensic analysis of the last recording revealed that the assault was orchestrated by four senior ISWAP commanders, known as Qai’ds, alongside three foreign operatives. Among these individuals was a Palestinian national, identified as Abu Ishaq, who served as the group's primary trainer, and a Moroccan medical doctor named Abu Thaiba, who was providing medical support to the terrorist network. Another Arab operative's identity remains undisclosed.
Following the engagement, Nigerian troops continued to secure the area and conducted follow-up operations to assess the full extent of ISWAP's casualties. Initial satellite imagery suggested that the terrorists evacuated the bodies of their slain fighters during their chaotic retreat. Additionally, credible intelligence sources indicated that the group suffered heavy casualties, with many members sustaining injuries during the firefight. While two soldiers were injured in the engagement, they have since been airlifted for advanced medical treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
As reported by gazettengr.com.
