At least 15 farmers and firewood gatherers have been killed in a suspected Boko Haram attack in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State, while three others remain missing.
The victims were reportedly attacked on Wednesday evening in the Ala, Gummna and Musune areas of Marte while carrying out farming activities and gathering firewood. Local sources said 18 people had gone into the area, but only 15 bodies were recovered and buried on Thursday according to Islamic rites.
The Public Relations Officer of the Borno State Police Command, Nahum Daso, confirmed the attack, saying 15 people were killed while efforts were ongoing to establish the whereabouts of those still missing.
“Yes, there was an attack in Marte. Fifteen people were killed while others are still missing,” Daso said, adding that details of the incident remained sketchy as security authorities continued gathering information.
Amnesty International condemned the killings, describing the targeting of civilians as a grave violation of international humanitarian law. The organisation called on Nigerian authorities to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities in the affected areas.
The latest attack adds to the security challenges confronting farming communities in parts of Borno, where residents continue to face risks while accessing farmlands and surrounding bush areas for their livelihoods.
