At least 60 people have been killed in an overnight attack by Boko Haram militants in Borno State, Nigeria.
The assault happened on Friday night in Darul Jamal, a village on the Nigeria-Cameroon border. Militants stormed the area, killing civilians and soldiers. Local officials say five soldiers died in the raid.
Residents had only recently returned to the community after years of displacement. Now, many homes and buses lie in ruins. Reports say more than 20 houses and 10 buses were destroyed. At least 13 drivers and workers were also killed. They had been helping rebuild the town.
Military Response
The Nigerian Air Force carried out strikes after the attack. Spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame said fighter jets targeted militants fleeing towards nearby bushes. “In three precise strikes, over 30 insurgents were neutralised,” he said.
The Nigerian army has been under pressure in recent months as jihadist groups increase attacks.
Governor’s Reaction
Borno Governor Babagana Zulum visited the village on Saturday. He called the attack a tragedy.
“It’s very sad. This community was resettled some months ago and they went about their normal business,” he said.
The governor admitted the army is stretched thin. He said a new security unit, the Forest Guards, will be deployed to help.
Ongoing Crisis
Borno has been the centre of Boko Haram’s insurgency for 15 years. The conflict has killed more than 40,000 people and displaced over two million.
Although Boko Haram lost large areas of territory after 2015, its fighters remain active. Alongside the Islamic State’s West Africa branch, the group has stepped up attacks on soldiers and civilians.
