Gov Zulum Reacts As Scores Killed, Many Abducted In Fresh Boko Haram Strikes In Borno

An attack by suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists have left atleast 40 farmers dead in the Dumba community, Kukawa Local Government Area, Borno State.

Many others remain missing and are feared abducted following the assault, which occurred around 4:30 pm on Sunday.

Naijaonpoint reports that the Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof Usman Tar, confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday, revealing that investigations are underway.

“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.

The attack comes just a day after two people were killed and a church burned in a similar assault on Chibok, in southern Borno State.

Governor Babagana Zulum strongly condemned the incident and urged the military to neutralize insurgents operating in Dumba and surrounding areas near Lake Chad.

According to The PUNCH, sources report the victims had ventured beyond a security perimeter established by the military to prevent residents from entering insurgent-held territories.

The Kukawa area has endured several attacks since 2014, including the infamous 2019 Boko Haram siege on Baga, where military personnel were executed, and thousands fled their homes.

Governor Zulum expressed sorrow over the recent killings and assured the public of justice and improved security measures. He also emphasized the importance of adhering to designated safe zones to avoid such tragedies.

“The government has demarcated land for safe farming, allowing the military to focus on clearing unsafe areas,” he noted, commending security forces for their efforts in securing farming and resettlement zones.

Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa discussed the precision of military airstrikes during a Monday interview, addressing allegations of civilian casualties.

He emphasized the complexity of operations in areas with terrorist weapon depots and dismissed claims of deliberate targeting of civilians.

Musa also highlighted tactics employed by terrorists to sustain their ranks, including systematic impregnation of women, and expressed concerns about the brutal nature of children raised in such environments.

The military, in collaboration with international bodies like the UN and EU, is working to disrupt terrorist financing networks, which include both local and international sources. Efforts are ongoing to trace and block funds used by insurgent groups.