Boko Haram terrorists have killed at least 14 farmers in a raid on farmlands in Borno State, with local authorities confirming the tragic death toll and warning that it could rise further.
The attack occurred on Saturday, April 26, near Pulka town in Gwoza district, where the farmers were clearing land in preparation for the upcoming planting season.
The Emir of Gwoza, Mohammed Idris Timta, who had earlier reported that 10 bodies were recovered, disclosed that four additional bodies were found on Sunday, April 27, bringing the total number of dead to 14.
The attack took place in an area directly beneath the Mandara Mountains, between Pulka and Ngwoshe, a region repeatedly targeted by Boko Haram militants.
Borno State authorities, supported by military personnel, have since launched search and rescue operations to locate more bodies.
These efforts come as the region has faced increasing attacks from Boko Haram and its rival faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which have targeted farmers, herders, and others suspected of collaborating with local anti-jihadist militias or the military.
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Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State expressed concerns over the ongoing setbacks in military efforts to curb Boko Haram’s influence in the region, which spans areas such as the Lake Chad islands, Sambisa Forest, and the Mandara Mountains.
Gwoza and surrounding areas have been under frequent assault by Boko Haram since the group first took control of the town in 2014, declaring it part of their caliphate.
While Nigerian military forces, with support from Chadian troops, recaptured Gwoza in 2015, Boko Haram continues to launch deadly raids from the surrounding mountain ranges.
The attacks have contributed to the displacement of around two million people and the deaths of more than 40,000 Nigerians since the conflict’s inception in 2009.
The Nigerian military and regional forces have continued efforts to combat the jihadist groups, but the ongoing conflict remains a major challenge for the region.