ISWAP over-runs military base, spares Borno town residents

Islamic State of West African Province, ISWAP fighters on Monday afternoon over-ran Rann, the headquarters of Kala Balge LGA in Borno. Soldiers and residents reportedly took to their heels.

Rann is about 350km from Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

“At about 0130hrs, suspected ISWAP fighters in large numbers attacked and dislodged Government forces in Rann town, the Administrative HQ of Kala Balge LGA.,” a report by the Daily Post stated.

“ The insurgents are said to have gained access into the main town shooting sporadically. No details yet but will be communicated once received.”

The report said the insurgents were allowing civilians out of the community. Humanitarian workers were reportedly trapped while others are hibernating outside the community.”

According to reports, many humanitarian workers have taken to the bush moving towards the Cameroon border trying to find their way out and avoiding the militants.

“They burnt down the military base and some vehicles. The soldiers abandoned their bases following more superior firepower from the insurgents.

“For now, we do not know what is going on in Rann as we are able to find an escape route along with some security operatives,” an aid worker with one of the NGO’s revealed.”