Nigeria: ISWAP militants clash with security forces in Borno Nov. 8

Event

Suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants have reportedly ambushed security forces in the vicinity of the Tamsukawu village near the Damatury-Maiduguri highway, Borno State Nov. 8. There have been no reported casualties and it remains unclear whether armed clashes are still ongoing. Uncorroborated reports suggest that authorities have deployed the Nigerian air forces.

Security forces will likely deploy to the site in the coming hours. Additional violence is likely. Localized disruptions are possible on road routes in the area.

Context

In recent days, there has been increased activity of ISWAP along the Damatury-Maiduguri corridor. Insurgents dressed as regular soldiers ambushed a civilian convoy along the Maiduguri-Damaturu highway near Ngamdu the afternoon of Nov. 2. Northeast Nigeria is highly susceptible to attacks and kidnappings by Islamist groups, including ISWAP and Boko Haram. Militants will continue to pose a significant threat to security in the border areas with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger, with regular attacks on civilian settlements and security forces positions almost certain to continue.

Advice

Heed the directives of local authorities in the impacted area. Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of similar attacks. Maintain regular contact with your diplomatic mission, travel only in convoy, and avoid all travel after dark. Confirm that a thorough communication plan exists to ensure rapid accountability for all personnel operating in northeast Nigeria.