Many feared dead as ISWAP attacks military base in Borno

Suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) reportedly carried out a late-night attack on a Nigerian military camp in Pulka, Borno State, according to local sources.

Eyewitnesses said the assault lasted for about one and a half hours, with heavy gunfire echoing across the town as residents took cover in fear. The attack reportedly created panic in surrounding communities, many of which have faced repeated security threats in recent years.

Data said to have been obtained from the Fire Incident and Risk Management System (FIRMS) indicated that parts of the military facility were set ablaze during the incident, though the extent of the damage has not been officially confirmed.

Several casualties among military personnel are being reported, though official figures have not yet been released.

Security operatives were said to have responded to the attack, but details of any counter-offensive or its outcome remain unclear.

On Friday, it was  reported that suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters abducted five civilians in Doro Baga, a community in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, amid renewed insecurity in Nigeria’s North-East.

The attack reportedly took place on Friday morning when armed militants stormed a fish market and seized five residents.

However, the victims were seized at about 7 a.m. while purchasing fresh fish at the busy market.

A security expert, Zagazola Makama, disclosed the incident, quoting sources familiar with the development.

The victims were identified as Alhaji Sani Boyi, Bullama Dan Umaru, Baba Inusa, Abubakar Jan Boris, and Mallam Shaibu.

They were reportedly rounded up by the armed insurgents and taken to an unknown destination, triggering panic among traders and residents of the fishing community, which has suffered repeated attacks by insurgent groups around the Lake Chad region.

Reports said troops of Operation HADIN KAI under Sector 3, alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local hunters, immediately responded after receiving distress calls from residents.

Security sources revealed that relevant intelligence had already been gathered regarding the movement of the attackers and the possible location of the abducted victims.

Doro Baga and neighbouring communities have remained exposed to attacks and abductions by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, who continue to target fishermen, farmers and traders despite ongoing military operations in the area.

(SAHARA REPORTERS)