Suspected Boko Haram terrorists have killed four soldiers and a civilian in a fresh attack on Mussa community in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, residents and officials confirmed.
The Chairman of Askira/Uba LGA, Mada Saidu, who confirmed the incident, said the civilian casualty was a woman.
“There was an attack at Mussa ward yesterday afternoon. They killed one civilian, a lady, and four soldiers,” Saidu said.
Military sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the slain personnel were members of the 115 Task Force Battalion deployed in the area.
“Four of our troops belonging to the 115 Task Force Battalion were killed while ensuring that the terrorists did not gain entrance into the town,” one source said.
“The insurgents were not many, but it was a coordinated attack aimed at infiltrating the town. The troops stood their ground, but unfortunately, the four were killed,” the source added.
Residents recounted moments of panic as gunfire reportedly lasted for about 30 minutes, forcing many villagers to flee their homes.
“We were hearing serious gunshots, and many people began to flee their homes,” a resident said.
“If not for the military’s defence, they had intended to enter our community that afternoon to cause massive destruction,” the resident added.
The latest attack underscores ongoing security challenges in Borno State, where insurgents continue to target both civilian populations and military formations.
