A violent clash has reportedly broken out between rival Boko Haram factions in Borno State, resulting in the deaths of several senior commanders.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) carried out a coordinated ambush on members of Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) around Bula Murge in Bama Local Government Area.

The attack, which reportedly occurred in the Gargash area near Bula Murge, approximately 11 kilometres north of Miyanti and 26 kilometres northeast of Bama, was described as a surprise assault that inflicted heavy losses on the JAS faction.

Sources indicated that several high-ranking commanders were killed during the encounter. Those reportedly affected include Abu Ubaida, Modu Kori, Alhaji Modu, Mure, Zarkawi, Sheriff, and Modu Maye, all said to be key figures within the JAS group operating in the region.

Intercepted communications suggest that surviving fighters from the JAS faction have begun relocating their families to Bula Daloye following the destruction of their camps.

“The attack threw the group into disarray, forcing them to consider evacuating their women and children after their strongholds were overrun,” the report noted.

Further details revealed that settlements such as Bula Murge and Nguro Bafuye, previously under the control of the faction, were set ablaze during the assault, leading to the destruction of shelters and logistical facilities.

Security sources reportedly believe the development has significantly weakened the JAS faction and created an opportunity for Nigerian troops to intensify ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the area.

Military authorities have since directed troops operating around Miyanti, Bama, Kumshe, and nearby communities to sustain offensive actions aimed at preventing either faction from regrouping or re-establishing operational bases.

Commanders have also been urged to maintain sustained pressure on both groups as part of broader efforts to degrade insurgent activities across the southern fringes of the Sambisa Forest.