FOUR security personnel, including members of the military and police, have been killed in a deadly ambush by suspected Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State, heightening fears of renewed attacks in farming communities across the state.
The attack occurred on Monday morning when security operatives were providing protection for local farmers on their way to their farmlands in the outskirts of the state capital.
According to eyewitnesses and security sources, who spoke to News Point Nigeria on condition of anonymity, the insurgents, riding motorcycles and some on foot, advanced stealthily before engaging the security escort team in a fierce gun battle.
“They opened fire without warning. Four security personnel were killed instantly, and several farmers were abducted, including women and young girls,” a local source told this newspaper.
Though the exact number of abducted farmers remains unclear, residents said many people were injured while fleeing for safety, with some collapsing into the hands of the insurgents.
Confirming the incident, Borno Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Daso, said: “The late mobile police officer and the soldier involved in the attack were under the Northeast Joint Taskforce Operation Hadin Kai. As such, I cannot comment further on the development.”
The Theater Command of Operation Hadin Kai had yet to issue an official statement as of press time, despite multiple requests for confirmation by News Point Nigeria.
This latest attack underscores the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram and its splinter factions in Borno, despite years of military offensives aimed at neutralising the group.
The insurgents, notorious for targeting vulnerable farmers and rural dwellers, have often launched attacks to cut off food supplies and assert control over remote communities.
Residents have called for urgent reinforcement of security around farming communities to prevent further bloodshed and abductions.
