Six suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) were killed after an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded while being assembled in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State.
The incident reportedly occurred around 7:00 a.m. on May 16, 2026, in Jubilaram community.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the development in a post shared on X on Saturday, citing security sources.
According to the report, the group was allegedly assembling explosives when the device detonated unexpectedly. A suspected bomb specialist identified as Abu Umar was among those killed. Five other fighters also died in the explosion, while three others reportedly sustained severe injuries.
Security sources said the deceased were linked to an ISWAP bomb-making unit operating around the Marte–Kerenoa–Wulgo corridor in the Lake Chad region.
The explosion is believed to have damaged a suspected IED production site located between Arinna Maimasallaci and Arinna Ciki.
Sources added that the incident could disrupt the group’s capacity to carry out roadside bomb attacks within the area.
Security agencies are reportedly considering follow-up operations aimed at targeting remaining insurgent elements in the axis.
