Military exploits ISWAP infighting to target fleeing fighters in Lake Chad
The military has stepped up operations across the Lake Chad Islands after intelligence that internal fighting within ISWAP has weakened the group. According to security sources speaking to counter‑terrorism expert Zagazola Makama, troops are conducting increased offensive patrols, precision fire missions and enhanced Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) to monitor fighters and deny safe havens. A senior military source said, "The current situation presents an operational advantage. Our forces are intensifying patrols and precision strikes while expanding intelligence and surveillance activities to track fleeing terrorists and prevent them from reorganising." The source warned that while the infighting has temporarily weakened ISWAP’s posture, displaced fighters may seek revenge, splinter into smaller cells or move into new areas, posing renewed threats to civilians and security forces. Troops have been placed on heightened alert across key locations in the Lake Chad basin to counter any insurgent attempts to exploit gaps. The military vowed to sustain pressure through coordinated land and air operations supported by enhanced intelligence gathering, ensuring current divisions do not evolve into a broader threat across the North‑East. Given the fluid situation, what precautions should residents of the Lake Chad basin take to stay safe amid heightened military movements and possible insurgent splintering?