Borno Boko Haram Attack Death Toll Rises to 28
The death toll from a suspected Boko Haram attack on villagers collecting firewood in Borno State, northeastern Nigeria, has risen to at least 28, following the discovery of 13 additional bodies over the weekend.
The victims were attacked in Marte Local Government Area, one of the areas severely affected by Nigeria’s long-running insurgency.
Fifteen people were initially reported killed and buried on Thursday. However, anti-jihadist militia teams searching surrounding bush areas reportedly recovered 13 more bodies on Saturday. The newly discovered victims were said to have sustained gunshot wounds.
Local leaders and security sources had earlier told Reuters that at least 18 villagers were killed after suspected militants ambushed residents who had ventured into the bush to gather firewood. Several others were initially reported missing following the attack.
Following the incident, Nigerian troops launched clearance operations in the area and began pursuing the suspected attackers.
The attack highlights the continuing risks faced by civilians in conflict-affected communities who are forced to leave relatively protected areas to access basic necessities such as firewood.
Boko Haram and its rival faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), continue to operate in parts of northeastern Nigeria despite years of military operations aimed at dismantling the insurgency.
The latest deaths add to the growing humanitarian burden in Borno State, where more than 17 years of insurgency have killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions.
The continued attacks also underscore the vulnerability of communities in remote areas, where access to security, food and other essential resources remains a major challenge.
Blessing Anolaba
Editorial & Creative Correspondent
A storyteller and journalist passionate about telling stories for policy change and impact.
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