Five suspected bomb specialists linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) were reportedly killed after an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated prematurely during a bomb-making operation in Borno State.
The incident reportedly occurred in Maina Daya Village, located between Sabon Tumbu and Jubilaram in Marte Local Government Area, approximately 29 kilometres east of Monguno.
Security sources said the explosion happened while the group was allegedly assembling IEDs believed to have been intended for future attacks along key military supply routes in the North-East.
Among those reportedly killed were an individual identified as Usman Dan Fulani, described as an ISWAP medical officer, two foreign technicians said to possess expertise in explosive devices, and two other suspected bomb-making specialists.
The unexpected explosion is believed to have disrupted the planned operation and dealt a setback to the group’s bomb-making capability in the area.
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Military sources said troops have been directed to intensify patrols and offensive operations around Monguno, Marte and Gamboru Ngala to exploit the development and prevent the insurgents from regrouping or rebuilding their operational network.
Security analysts noted that the loss of experienced bomb specialists could temporarily reduce the group’s ability to carry out roadside bomb attacks, which have remained one of its primary tactics against military convoys and civilian vehicles in the North-East.
Authorities said security operations would continue across the region to sustain pressure on insurgent groups and deny them the opportunity to rebuild their capacity.
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