ISWAP-JAS rivalry escalates, over 50 fighters killed in deadly clashes

The rivalry between the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) has intensified sharply, culminating in a clash that claimed the lives of over 50 JAS fighters.

According to Zagazola Makama on his X handle, the confrontation occurred near Kachalla Kellori village in Mobbar Local Government Area, Borno State, on January 20. ISWAP forces launched a decisive assault, forcing JAS fighters to flee in disarray toward Gashigar.

In the pursuit, ISWAP captured several fleeing JAS members, while others sought shelter in abandoned villages nearby.

In retaliation, JAS launched a counter-attack on ISWAP at Maleri Zoriaya village, roughly 2 kilometers southeast of Kachalla Kellori, on the night of January 21.

This escalation reflects the growing hostilities between the two factions, fueled by competition for territorial control and dominance over key smuggling routes from Geidam and Diffa (Niger) to the Lake Chad Region Basin Area…