In a series of coordinated, deadly midnight assaults, suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists targeted communities in Borno State, resulting in the tragic deaths of four police personnel and one hunter. The valiant efforts of combined security forces, however, successfully repelled the attackers, preventing a wider catastrophe across Nganzai and Mobbar Local Government Areas.
Deadly Midnight Assaults Rock Borno Communities
The first attack unfolded around 1:00 AM on Saturday, April 4, when heavily armed terrorists descended upon the Nganzai Divisional Police Headquarters. Their objective: to overrun the town and inflict maximum damage. The Borno State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, confirmed that the assailants deployed sophisticated weaponry, including Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs), in their fierce attempt to breach the station.
Nganzai Police Headquarters Under Fire
Despite the overwhelming force, the Police Divisional Officers, supported by Police Mobile Force (PMF) operatives and a specialized Crack Squad on special duty, engaged the terrorists in a brutal gun battle. This courageous resistance successfully repelled the coordinated attack on Nganzai, restoring normalcy to the area. Tragically, four dedicated police personnel made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, paying the supreme price to defend their post and community. The attack also caused damage to a section of the station and partially incinerated an unserviceable Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC).
IDP Camp Attacked in Mobbar LGA
Hours later, around 2:40 AM on the same date, another wing of the terrorist group struck the Malam Fatori IDP Camp, located in Damasak town within Mobbar LGA. Their target was a crucial Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF)/Hunters duty post guarding the camp’s entrance. During this second assault, 40-year-old Atom Abua, a dedicated member of the Hunters Group, tragically lost his life. The attack also resulted in the destruction of approximately 20 thatched houses and other properties within the camp.
Valiant Defense and Aftermath
In both harrowing incidents, prompt and decisive action from combined teams of the Police, Military, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and local hunters proved critical. These unified forces responded swiftly, engaging the attackers and effectively repelling them, thereby preventing further devastation and loss of life across the affected communities.
Commissioner's Resolve and Public Appeal
Following the attacks, the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, moved quickly to reinforce security and reassure the public. PPRO Daso conveyed the Commissioner’s firm resolve:
- Increased Manpower: CP Abdulmajid has deployed additional personnel and operational assets to the affected areas to bolster security.
- Intensified Operations: Efforts are being ramped up to prevent any future attacks and maintain vigilance.
- Commendation for Bravery: The CP lauded the exceptional courage and resilience of the officers who confronted the assailants and prevented them from overrunning the towns.
- Condolences: Heartfelt condolences were extended to the families of the fallen personnel, recognizing their immense sacrifice.
- Commitment to Justice: The Command has reiterated its unwavering commitment to tracking down the perpetrators of these heinous acts and bringing them to justice.
- Public Vigilance: Members of the public are urged to remain calm, stay vigilant, and continue to provide security agencies with credible intelligence.
The Borno State Police Command re-emphasized its steadfast commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all residents across the state, even in the face of persistent terrorist threats.