Fresh intelligence has revealed growing anxiety within the ranks of the Islamic State West Africa Province as fighters express deep concern over the safety of their families following recent airstrikes in Sambisa Forest.
Security sources say the tension followed precision strikes carried out by the Nigerian Air Force under Operation Hadin Kai, targeting insurgent enclaves in the Sambisa axis.
Intercepts indicate that a suspected fighter, identified as Shettima, voiced frustration over delayed and conflicting reports about the fate of relatives caught in the bombardment, highlighting cracks in the group’s internal communication.
Another associate, Abu Fatima, reportedly disclosed that top commanders have restricted the flow of casualty information, warning fighters against sharing details—fueling suspicion and mistrust within the ranks.
Intelligence further suggests that while insurgents fled targeted areas during the strikes, many family members, including women and children, were left exposed in separate تجمعات, with several casualties and injuries recorded.
Sources revealed that some victims are receiving treatment within insurgent enclaves, while others suffered severe injuries, including amputations, underscoring the devastating impact of the sustained air campaign.
Analysts say the development signals mounting psychological pressure on ISWAP fighters, as relentless aerial offensives continue to disrupt their operations, weaken morale, and erode confidence in leadership.
With fear, misinformation, and uncertainty spreading through the ranks, experts believe the insurgents are now battling not just military losses but internal distrust over the safety of their families.
While the ongoing air campaign is delivering strategic gains, security experts stress the need for sustained coordination between air, ground, and intelligence operations to consolidate successes and further dismantle insurgent strongholds in the Northeast.
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