Suspected Boko Haram terrorists have killed four soldiers and a woman in an attack on Mussa community in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, reportedly lasted for about 30 minutes, forcing residents to flee as gunfire echoed across the area.
Confirming the incident to journalists on Thursday, the chairman of Askira/Uba LGA, Mada Saidu, said that both military personnel and a civilian were killed in the assault.
“There was an attack at Mussa ward yesterday afternoon. They killed one civilian, a lady, and four soldiers,” he said.
It was gathered that the slain troops were members of the 115 Task Force Battalion, who were engaged in efforts to repel the attackers and prevent them from infiltrating the community.
According to reports, the insurgents launched a coordinated offensive but were resisted by the troops, who succeeded in stopping them from gaining access to the town.
“Four of our men were killed while ensuring the terrorists did not gain entrance into the town. The attackers were not many, but it was a coordinated attempt to break through,” a military source said.
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Residents said the sound of heavy gunfire caused panic, with many fleeing their homes for safety.
“We heard serious gunshots and people started running around 12 p.m. If not for the soldiers, the terrorists would have entered the town and caused more destruction,” a resident said.
The incident is the latest in a series of attacks targeting communities and military formations in the state.
As of the time of filing this report, the military is yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.