Suspected Boko Haram terrorists launched a deadly attack on farmers in Kayakura, a village in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, leaving many feared dead and others missing. The attack occurred on Sunday evening around 5 p.m., disrupting the peaceful lives of farmers and fishermen in the area.
Eyewitnesses described the terrifying scene as unexpected. A resident, Tijanni, said, “There was no sign of any invasion. We were seated, and before you know it, we started hearing gunshots and people running for cover.”
Another resident, Aisha Mohammad, revealed that several people remain unaccounted for following the attack. “I do not have records. But there are faces that we could no longer find among us. A sister of mine has been looking for her son who went to the farm since yesterday,” she said.
Efforts to contact Lt. Col. A.Y. Jingina, spokesperson for Operation Hadin Kai, was unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls or messages.
Also Read:
- Many Feared Dead in Alleged Airstrike on Zamfara Vigilantes
- Terrorists Attack Church in Borno, Kill Two Worshippers
Government Condemns the Attack
The Borno State Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, confirmed the attack in a statement on Monday. He reported that approximately 40 farmers were killed, and the search for missing persons continues.
“On Sunday, 12 January 2025, armed militia suspected to be Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists attacked some farmers and fishermen at Dumba community, near Baga in Kukawa LGA. Initial reports indicate about 40 farmers have been killed, while the whereabouts of many who escaped the attack are being traced for reunion with their families,” Tar stated.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and condemned the violent act. “With deep sorrow and anguish, I received the sad news of the attack on Dumba where scores of our farmers and fishermen were killed by the terrorists. On behalf of the government, I sympathise with the victims’ families,” Zulum said.
He called on the Armed Forces to intensify their efforts to neutralize terrorist activities in the Lake Chad region. “I urge the officers and men of Operation Hadin Kai to track and obliterate the insurgent elements operating in Dumba and other similar enclaves in the Lake Chad Area,” Zulum added.
The governor assured the public that the government would work tirelessly to reunite the missing individuals with their families and ensure justice is served.
Recent Counterterrorism Efforts
This attack comes shortly after the Multinational Joint Task Force, under Sector 3 in the Monguno area, reported eliminating 15 terrorists during a clearance operation in Kukawa Local Government Area. Despite these efforts, the latest incident highlights the persistent security challenges faced by communities in Borno State.
Residents of the affected areas remain fearful as authorities work to restore safety and stability. The government has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to justice.