Deadly Assault by Boko Haram and ISWAP Leaves 40 Farmers Dead in Borno State

In a tragic incident, suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants attacked the Dumba community in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, resulting in the death of at least 40 farmers. The assault, which took place around 4:30 pm on Sunday, has also led to many individuals being reported missing, raising fears of abductions.

According to Naija News, the Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof Usman Tar, confirmed the attack in an official statement on Monday. He highlighted that the authorities are currently investigating the incident and attempting to locate those who managed to escape. “Initial reports indicate about 40 farmers have been killed, while the whereabouts of many who escaped the attack are being traced for reunion with their families,” Tar stated.

This latest violence follows closely on the heels of another attack in Chibok, where two individuals were killed, and a church was set ablaze. Governor Babagana Zulum has condemned the attack in strong terms, calling for the military to intensify efforts to eliminate the insurgents in Dumba and the surrounding regions near Lake Chad.

Reports from The PUNCH indicate that the victims had ventured outside of a designated security zone, which was set up to keep residents away from areas controlled by insurgents. The Kukawa region has a history of such violent episodes, notably the 2019 Boko Haram siege on Baga, where significant military and civilian casualties were recorded.

Governor Zulum expressed his grief over the killings and vowed to seek justice, promising enhanced security measures. He stressed the critical importance of residents adhering to safety protocols by staying within the government-demarcated safe zones for farming and other activities. “The government has demarcated land for safe farming, allowing the military to focus on clearing unsafe areas,” he explained, acknowledging the efforts of the security forces in maintaining safety within these zones.

In related developments, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa has been addressing concerns regarding the precision of military operations in the area, particularly in light of allegations of civilian casualties during military engagements with insurgents.