ISWAP claims Borno ambush, says it killed brigadier general despite army denial

Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters said they have killed M. Uba, a brigadier general, following the ambush of a convoy of soldiers and operatives of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Borno state.

The terrorists ambushed the troops on Friday at Damboa Road along Wajiroko in Borno when they were transporting some military equipment.

The ISWAP fighters reportedly opened fire on the military convoy along the road — an incident that led to a gun duel between the troops and the insurgents.

At least 17 military motorcycles were seized by the ISWAP fighters, while two CJTF operatives and two soldiers were killed during the gun battle.

Following the ambush, there were reports that Uba had been abducted by the insurgents.

However, Onyechi Anele, the army spokesperson, denied the reports on Saturday, insisting that the brigadier general battled the “insurgents’ ambush with superior firepower,” forcing them to withdraw in disarray and abandon their mission.

She said Uba led the troops back to the military base, adding that during the gun duel, two CJTF operatives and two soldiers were killed.

Uba was also reported to have released a video statement, confirming he was alive, unharmed, and fully in command.

However, Reuters reports that the terrorist group has executed the military general after he was captured.

Reuters, quoting a statement posted on its Amaq propaganda channel, said ISWAP claimed responsibility for the ambush.