Terrorists on Thursday night launched a deadly attack on the 152 Task Force Battalion in Banki, a border community in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, leaving several casualties and forcing residents to flee across the border into Cameroon.
Local officials confirmed that five civilians were killed in the assault, while several others sustained injuries and were evacuated to hospitals in Mora, Cameroon. Witnesses said more than four military vehicles were set ablaze during the attack.
Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, spokesperson for Defence Headquarters, confirmed the incident and the death of one soldier but stressed that troops repelled the assault.
“It’s true that our troops had an encounter with the terrorists/insurgents at Banki on Thursday night. The troops were not dislodged as alleged. There was a serious firefight between our troops and the terrorists. The troops are still at their base, although we lost a soldier during the encounter,” Kangye said.
He added that the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division visited the area for an on-the-spot assessment and confirmed that the situation had been brought under control.
The Information Officer of Bama Local Government, Babagana Abatcha, said five civilians were killed and six others injured.
“As I speak, they are currently receiving treatment in Cameroon hospitals,” Abatcha stated.
Residents reported that many families crossed into Cameroon for refuge following the attack. Alhaji Gana Alh Chibu, Supervisory Councillor for Agriculture and Natural Resources, said the terrorists first targeted the town before attacking the military base.
“Many residents fled to Cameroon. What happened was that the town was first attacked before they hit the military camp. As for the military casualties, I don’t have an idea. But I am aware they set many military vehicles ablaze,” he said.
A statement issued after the attack said the Executive Chairman of Bama LGA, Modu Ali Gujja, visited the military authorities but did not disclose details of their meeting.
The statement added that Governor Babagana Zulum approved financial support of ₦500,000 for each bereaved family.
“Hon. Modu Ali Gujja encourages the community to remain strong, urging them to continue praying for lasting peace in the region,” the statement noted.
Residents expressed concern over the rising wave of violence in Bama LGA, recalling the Darajamal attack earlier this month that claimed 63 lives.
“The government has visited us and reassured us of tight security. My cousin who suffered from injury is among the victims in the hospital. I am aware they are at least recuperating,” a resident, who pleaded anonymity, said.
Community leaders and residents are now appealing for additional troops and equipment in the area, citing two major attacks in less than two weeks.
