Explosion and Gunfire Kill 20 in Borno State Attack

On Thursday, an explosion and subsequent gunfire in Hambagda village, located a few kilometers from Gwoza in Borno State, resulted in the deaths of no fewer than 20 individuals, including farmers and loggers. The attack is suspected to have been carried out by Boko Haram insurgents, who reportedly planted landmines along a route frequented by civilians.

Local sources indicated that the victims were engaged in routine livelihood activities, specifically gathering firewood in preparation for the rainy season when the explosion occurred. Members of the civilian joint task force described the attack as devastating, with at least 18 bodies recovered and fears that the casualty count may rise as several individuals remain unaccounted for.

The incident has heightened concerns regarding the safety of farmers and rural dwellers in the area, particularly as the planting season approaches, raising alarms about the security situation in Borno State.