An unspecified number of firewood scavengers have been reportedly slaughtered by gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram terrorists in some parts of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

It was learnt that the incident happened on Thursday at about 12:10am.

Five survivors were said to have sustained severe injuries after stepping on an Improvised Explosive Device, IED, while attempting to confront the terrorists.

The attack was confirmed in a press statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, on Thursday evening.

According to the statement, two hand grenades were recovered by EOD – CBRN Base 13 Maiduguri, while the body of the deceased have been taken to State General Hospital Maiduguri.

The statement reads in part; “On 9th January 2025 at about 12:10am, unknown gunmen suspected to be BokoHaram Terrorists attempted to invade Nganzai Police Division, gallant officers who were on watch repelled the terrorists, after series of exchange in a gun battle, the terrorist threw hand-grenades which unfortunately landed on a shelter tent behind the division, and fatally wounded two officers.

“During the scene assessment by the Commissioner of Police, two hand grenades were recovered by EOD – CBRN Base 13 Maiduguri, The body of the deceased have been taken to State General Hospital Maiduguri.

“The Commissioner of Police commended the gallant officers who stood their ground to prevent the attack and condoles with the families of the two officers who lost their lives.

“The Command remains dedicated and committed in ensuring safety and security for all and calls for calm as normalcy has been restored,” the statement added.

Men of Nigerian joint security forces, last night, neutralized notorious banditry leader known as “Baƙo-baƙo” along with his fighters in Batsari forest within Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The operations were carried out by the troops of the Nigerian Army, the Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and local vigilante – CWC.

A notorious bandit leader responsible for violent attacks and kidnappings that terrorized a number of communities in Katsina State, Baƙo-baƙo had been in the crosshairs of security agencies for a while.

His death is considered a major breakthrough in efforts to combat banditry in the area.

A local community leader said, “This is a big victory for our community. We are thankful for the sacrifices and efforts of the security forces in bringing peace to our region.”

Security operatives have rescued a kidnap victim and killed three suspected kidnappers in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.

The rescue efforts began after a distress call was received by Vandiekya Police Divisional Headquarters regarding the kidnap of one Tor Gajir by gunmen in the area.

The police swiftly escalated their investigation and followed the trail to one Desmond Ahar, who was found to be part of the kidnappers.

Ahar then led the operatives to the kidnappers’ den in Adikpo, Benue State, where a gun duel ensued, resulting in the neutralization of three suspects.

The victim was rescued unhurt and given medical attention to assess any physical or psychological impact

The victim was rescued unhurt and given medical attention to assess any physical or psychological impact. The operation also led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and six loaded magazines with several live ammunition.

In a similar incident, operatives of the Nasarawa State Police Command located an abandoned sienna vehicle along Keffi-Kaduna Highway and rescued two hostages who had been captured by kidnappers.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their bravery and dedication, urging them to sustain their efforts to ensure public safety and national security. He also encouraged community members to remain vigilant and play their role in ensuring safety.