A reference in a newly released Islamic State publication mentions an apparent new title for a key member of Boko Haram, raising questions about its leadership and future after a major Nigerian military offensive.
The report in the 41st edition of the Islamic State’s Al-Naba magazine, published Tuesday, carried an interview with a man it called Boko Haram’s “governor” for West Africa, Abu Musab al-Barnawi, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors militant jihadist media.
The reference appears to indicate a promotion for Mr. al-Barnawi, who had been cited in a January 2015 video as a Boko Haram spokesman. The report made no mention of the status of Abubakar Shekau, who had been thought to be the leader of Boko Haram. It said Mr. al-Barnawi did not condone attacks on mosques and markets frequented by Muslims — a hallmark tactic of the organization.
The report from the Islamic State led to a new round of speculation about the hierarchy and status of Boko Haram, which for the past year has been on the run from intensive strikes by the Nigerian military.
Read More- New York Times
Image courtesy of Getty
A reference in a newly released Islamic State publication mentions an apparent new title for a key member of Boko Haram, raising questions about its leadership and future after a major Nigerian military offensive.
The report in the 41st edition of the Islamic State’s Al-Naba magazine, published Tuesday, carried an interview with a man it called Boko Haram’s “governor” for West Africa, Abu Musab al-Barnawi, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors militant jihadist media.
The reference appears to indicate a promotion for Mr. al-Barnawi, who had been cited in a January 2015 video as a Boko Haram spokesman. The report made no mention of the status of Abubakar Shekau, who had been thought to be the leader of Boko Haram. It said Mr. al-Barnawi did not condone attacks on mosques and markets frequented by Muslims — a hallmark tactic of the organization.
The report from the Islamic State led to a new round of speculation about the hierarchy and status of Boko Haram, which for the past year has been on the run from intensive strikes by the Nigerian military.
Read More- New York Times
Image courtesy of Getty
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