In a renewed wave of insurgent violence, Boko Haram militants have attacked Madagali in Adamawa State, killing seven civilians and ambushing a Nigerian Army patrol team.
The assault also left four soldiers injured and led to the theft of four military motorcycles.
Security sources confirmed the military unit was attacked around 4pm on Thursday while attempting to retrieve the body of one of the civilians slain during the initial onslaught.
Residents recounted the terror of the previous night’s invasion, describing how the gunmen stormed the northeastern town armed with sophisticated weapons. “They killed indiscriminately before they were eventually repelled by a joint team of soldiers and local vigilantes,” said one eyewitness.
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This attack comes just two days after top security officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and other intelligence chiefs, visited Adamawa for high-level discussions with Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri on the security challenges in the region.
In a related development, the insurgents also reportedly targeted Hong Local Government Area, destroying food supplies and claiming more civilian lives. The twin attacks have heightened fears among farming communities along the Adamawa-Borno border, prompting mass displacement as residents flee to safer areas.
As of press time, military officials had yet to issue a formal statement, and efforts to reach the Nigerian Army spokesperson were unsuccessful.
(SAHARA REPORTERS)