The Nigeria Police Force in Borno State has confirmed the death of four officers following a foiled attack by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents in Nganzai Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of April 4, involved an attempted assault on the Nganzai Divisional Police Headquarters.
According to the command’s spokesperson, Keneth Daso, security operatives successfully repelled the coordinated attack and restored calm in the area.
Police officers, supported by operatives of the Police Mobile Force and Crack Squad, engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle after the insurgents launched the assault using heavy weapons, including rocket-propelled grenades.
“Regrettably, four police personnel paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” the statement said.
In a separate but related incident, the attackers also targeted the Mallam Fatori Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Damasak, attacking a security post manned by local hunters and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force.
During the attack, a hunter identified as Atom Abua was killed, while several thatched houses and properties were destroyed.
Joint security teams, including the police, military, local hunters, and the Civilian Joint Task Force, were able to repel the attackers in both locations, preventing further damage.
The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, has since deployed additional personnel and resources to reinforce security in the affected areas and prevent further attacks.
He also commended the bravery of the officers involved and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, assuring that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.
Residents have been urged to remain calm, stay vigilant, and support security agencies with credible information.
