Troops eliminate ISWAP Top Commander Abu Fatima, others in Borno

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai Joint Taskforce North-East have recorded a major breakthrough with the elimination of Abu Fatima, a notorious top commander of the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP), in Borno State.

According to security sources, Abu Fatima was killed alongside two of his close associates during a military operation at Aleru Village in Kukawa Local Government Area.

The Nigerian Army confirmed the successful operation on its official Facebook page on Friday.

The slain terror kingpin, who had a ₦100 million bounty placed on his head by the military, was infamous for orchestrating numerous attacks, particularly in the northern part of Borno State, including the Baga axis.

Sources revealed that Abu Fatima was initially captured alive but later succumbed to excessive bleeding sustained during the fierce gun battle.

Troops recovered several items from the scene of the operation, including motorcycles, AK-47 rifles, and bomb-making materials.

A military source described the death of Abu Fatima as a significant victory for the troops and a serious blow to the terror group’s operational capacity in the region.

The source likened the impact of his death to that of Abubakar Shekau, noting that residents of Baga, Kukawa, Cross Kau, Doro, and surrounding areas would especially feel the relief of his demise.

“This is a milestone achievement for the military and a great setback to the terrorists,” the source said.