By Ibrahim Danladi

Reports have emerged stating that Kiriku, a prominent field commander of the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP), has died in Borno state. According to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, Kiriku passed away three days after being bitten by a snake in one of ISWAP’s hideouts located in Damboa LGA of Borno.

Kiriku sustained the snakebite injury on Tuesday and succumbed to it on Friday. Regrettably, he was unable to access medical treatment, leading to his demise.

Before his death, Kiriku operated in the Jiddari area of Chiralia within the Timbuktu triangle, a stronghold shared by Boko Haram and ISWAP. The Timbuktu triangle spans four LGAs in Borno (Damboa, Jere, Kaga, and Konduga) as well as Gujba LGA in Yobe state.

Kiriku was known for leading numerous attacks and ambushes against the troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno.

TROOPS ELIMINATE ‘SIX INSURGENTS’

In a separate development, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have reportedly killed six ISWAP fighters in Banki town. Special forces collaborated with the civilian joint task force (CJTF) to carry out the operation.

The encounter took place on Thursday near the Bula Yobe and Darajamal road in Bama LGA, Borno. The insurgents targeted were involved in the production and placement of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).