Nigeria: Boko Haram Ambush claims 1 police officer, injures 6 others

An ambush on the convoy of Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State by Boko Haram has resulted in the death of one police officer and left six others injured.

The assailants targeted the convoy on the Jakana – Mainok expressway as it was returning from the University of Maiduguri’s 24th Convocation ceremony.

Governor Buni, along with other dignitaries, had attended the ceremony, where Vice-President Kashim Shettima received an honorary doctorate degree.

While the governor stayed in Maiduguri for another official engagement, his security escorts were on their way back to Yobe when the attack occurred.

According to reports, the terrorists fired upon the security operatives, focusing on the troops leading the convoy with an MRAP, a Gun Truck, and a vehicle conveying the Police and DSS.

The security forces responded with heavy fire, forcing the terrorists to retreat. Tragically, one police officer paid the ultimate sacrifice, and four policemen, along with two soldiers, sustained injuries.

The casualties among the terrorists were unconfirmed at the time of reporting.

The security operatives managed to safely return to Damaturu, the Yobe state capital, while the wounded personnel and the driver were evacuated to an undisclosed hospital for treatment.

Mohammed Mamman, the director-general of media and press affairs to the governor, confirmed the attack.

He stated that three security personnel were injured in the ambush, emphasizing that the security forces successfully repelled the attack, and the injured individuals were responding well to treatment.

This incident underscores the persistent security challenges faced by the region, as Boko Haram continues to pose a threat to the lives of civilians and security forces alike.

The government is expected to intensify efforts to address the ongoing security concerns in the area.