Scores of fighters from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) groups have been reportedly killed during a renewed infighting in Borno.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, some field commanders from both groups were killed during the a heavy fight at Tumbum Ali Island in Marte LGA around 2 p.m. on Satuday.
The publication said the fight was in retaliation for the massive killing of ISWAP fighters by the Bakura Buduma-led faction of Boko Haram after seizing most of their hideouts.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that six boats belonging to the Buduma’s faction and four boats filled with fighters were destroyed during the fight.
The sources said the casualties on both sides “could be more than 60 as the infighting continued”.
Meanwhile, the Niger Republic troops have killed scores of ISWAP fighters during an encounter near Abadam Faransa along the River Komadugu in Lake Chad.
Zagazola Makama reported that the Nigerien troops killed the fighters on Friday during a gun duel.
The publication said the troops have been concerned over recent havoc wrecked by the ISWAP fighters on their territory.
Intelligence sources told the publication that troops chased over 100 of the terrorists towards Tumbun Jaki and Tumbun Rago areas of Lake Chad.
However, two of the Nigerien troopers were killed while few others wounded in action.