The number of ISWAP fighters killed during a failed attempt to overrun a military position in Malam Fatori, Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State, has increased to 75. Security analysts have described the outcome as one of the most significant recent setbacks for the group.
According to Zagazola Makama, a security expert, initial figures had placed the death toll at 61 after troops of Operation Hadin Kai, with support from the Nigerian Air Force, responded to the attack. Fresh battlefield reviews and follow-up clearance operations now show that at least 75 insurgents were eliminated. Several others are believed to have fled with serious injuries.
The incident took place in the early hours of Wednesday when ISWAP fighters advanced on foot toward the 68 Battalion base. They reportedly used armed drones in a bid to break through the defence. The movement, which came from the Duguri axis toward the Bravo Company position, was quickly identified and repelled.
Military sources linked the success of the defence to strong coordination between ground forces and air support. They noted that this reflects improved joint operations in the North-East counter-insurgency campaign.
Air components carried out four targeted strikes on routes used by the attackers to withdraw. These strikes disrupted their movement and reduced their fighting strength. Sustained aerial pressure forced the fighters into a disorganised retreat toward the Arege axis.
Additional air support from the Niger Republic targeted fleeing insurgents. Although a full assessment is still ongoing, security sources said the joint effort contributed to the higher casualty figure.
Troops also recovered a significant quantity of weapons and ammunition from the scene, a development expected to further limit the group’s activities around the Lake Chad area.
On the side of the military, four soldiers suffered minor injuries and have received treatment.
