Terrorist Attacks in Kill 10 in Benue, Two Police Officers in Zamfara, Several Houses Destroyed

Within a span of three days, devastating terrorist attacks in Benue and Zamfara have led to the tragic loss of 10 residents and two police officers, while also leaving a trail of destruction and displacement.

In Apa Local Government Area of Benue State, four villages have been struck by violence, resulting in 10 fatalities. The relentless attacks have forced hundreds to seek refuge in the local government headquarters. Governor Hyacinth Alia has pointed to the involvement of local individuals in inviting foreign herders, exacerbating the situation.

Zamfara State: Law Enforcement Under Fire

The situation in Zamfara State is equally dire, with two police officers losing their lives in an ambush in Zurmi town. The assault on law enforcement highlights the growing challenges faced by security forces in the region.

The ripple effects of these attacks extend to Niger State, where over 30 houses have been burned in the Allawa community. The destruction of homes and property adds to the mounting humanitarian crisis.

Response and Resilience

In the face of these challenges, security forces, including troops from the Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation Hadin Kai, have been actively engaging with the threat, as evidenced by the recent neutralisation of three ISWAP fighters in Yobe State.

The communities affected by these terrorist attacks in Benue and Zamfara are urged to remain vigilant and united in the face of adversity. The collective effort is crucial for restoring peace and rebuilding the lives of those impacted.

ISWAP Commanders Killed in Borno Air Strike

In a significant blow to the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP), three of its commanders have been reportedly eliminated in military air strikes. The operation, which also resulted in the deaths of 22 other insurgents, took place at Arinna Woje village in Marte Local Government Area of Borno.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication specializing in the Lake Chad region, the air component of Operation Hadin Kai conducted a full and aggressive bombardment of the terrorists’ hideout. The deceased commanders were identified as Abacha, Bakura, and Babangida, the latter hailing from the Jibularam area in Borno.

The publication further reported that the bodies of the ISWAP fighters were recovered and buried on Monday, with a significant number of insurgent group members in attendance. Among those present were Amirul fiye, Abu Hamza, Khaid of Tumbumma, Abu Nazir, Abu Rijal, and the Khaid of Koloram.

This operation follows recent successes by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, who reportedly killed 11 ISWAP fighters and destroyed 25 terrorist camps in the Sambisa forest and Timbuktu Triangle in Borno.