No fewer than 20 persons have been reportedly killed in a fresh attack suspected to have been carried out by Boko Haram insurgents in Hambagda, a community near Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
The victims, said to include fish farmers and wood loggers, were reportedly attacked on Thursday when an improvised explosive device believed to have been planted by the insurgents detonated along a route on the outskirts of Gwoza.
Sources within the Civilian Joint Task Force disclosed that the incident occurred around 11am, throwing the community into panic.
A member of the group, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the assailants targeted civilians engaged in daily economic activities, particularly those sourcing firewood.
“It is a tragic incident for us in Gwoza. About 20 people, mostly loggers, lost their lives, while several others sustained gunshot injuries,” the source said.
The source further revealed that after the explosion, the attackers reportedly opened fire on fleeing victims, worsening the casualty figure.
“They planted explosives along the route, and immediately after the blast, they began shooting at the civilians,” he added.
Rescue efforts have so far led to the recovery of about 18 bodies from surrounding communities, while search operations are ongoing for others still missing.
Local residents expressed fears that the death toll could rise, as several victims remain unaccounted for.
The latest incident has heightened anxiety among residents, particularly farmers, as it comes amid preparations for the planting season. Community members warned that the renewed violence could further disrupt livelihoods and worsen insecurity in the area.