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| ISWAP Group |
In a devastating incident along the Baga-Kukawa Road in the Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, tragedy struck when a commercial vehicle unwittingly drove over an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) suspected to have been planted by ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) terrorists. The explosion resulted in the feared loss of at least 16 lives, with an additional 20 individuals sustaining injuries. The incident occurred on Wednesday, April 17, as confirmed by credible military intelligence sources and echoed by counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, Zagazola Makama.
While initial reports suggested 10 fatalities, subsequent insights from reliable sources indicated a higher toll. The unfortunate event unfolded despite heightened security measures in the area. Lt. Col. Ajemusu Jingina, the spokesman for the 7 Division, declined to comment on the specifics of the incident, citing that the location falls within the jurisdiction of the Multi-National Joint Task Force, headquartered in Ndjamena, Chad Republic.
Bukar Wakil, a resident of Baga, recounted the sequence of events, revealing that the IED was seemingly intended to target military personnel. However, it was the civilian-laden vehicle that traversed the area first, leading to the tragic outcome. The incident underscores the persistent threat posed by ISWAP in the region, despite ongoing efforts by security forces to combat insurgency and ensure the safety of residents.
In response to the resurgence of attacks by ISWAP across the Lake Chad basin, security experts like Abdullahi Abubakar have expressed concerns. Abubakar highlighted three pivotal factors contributing to the escalating violence: the perceived degradation of Boko Haram, ISWAP's incursions into the Chad basin, and its relentless quest for supremacy over rival factions. Until decisive action is taken to neutralize the threat posed by ISWAP, the specter of terrorism will continue to loom large over northern Borno and beyond.
Uthman Abubakar, reporting on this tragic development, underscores the urgent need for sustained efforts to address the menace of insurgency and safeguard the lives and livelihoods of communities affected by conflict.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident, the imperative for collaborative counter-terrorism initiatives and enhanced security measures becomes ever more pressing.
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