Unconfirmed reports indicate that suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) ambushed Nigerian Army troops in Damasak, Mobbar Local Government Area of Borno State, on Tuesday.
According to the reports, the attack resulted in the killing of at least seven soldiers, while 13 others—including commanding officers—were allegedly captured by the insurgents. Military authorities are yet to issue an official statement confirming the incident.
Damasak and surrounding areas have witnessed repeated insurgent attacks in recent years, as ISWAP and other armed groups continue to exploit difficult terrain and security gaps in northern Borno. Similar ambushes in the past have led to casualties, abductions, and the loss of military equipment, underscoring the persistent threat posed by insurgents despite ongoing counterterrorism operations.
The latest incident, if confirmed, would further highlight the evolving tactics of ISWAP, which has increasingly targeted military formations and patrol units in surprise attacks across the Lake Chad and northern Borno axis.
Residents and security observers remain on edge as they await official confirmation and further details from the Nigerian military.
