At least nine Nigerian soldiers and a community Chief Imam were killed on Tuesday night when suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents attacked Ngoshe town in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.
Security sources said the assailants struck shortly after residents broke their Ramadan fast, arriving in large numbers and heavily armed. According to a source who spoke on condition of anonymity, the attackers overran a military formation after an intense exchange of gunfire.
In addition to the military casualties, the town’s Chief Imam was killed during the assault. Another security source alleged that more than 100 women and children were abducted, while several other residents sustained injuries. The claims, however, have not been independently verified.
Residents reported that much of the community has been deserted following the attack, with many fleeing to nearby Pulka for safety. There were also accounts of homes and property set ablaze as the insurgents retreated.
One source further alleged that the attackers may have received assistance from within the community, though no official confirmation has been provided.
Efforts to obtain a response from the spokesperson of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, were unsuccessful as of press time.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
