A Terrifying Ambush
Terrorists suspected to be members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) launched a brazen attack on a commercial vehicle along the Maiduguri-Banki road in Borno State. The incident, which occurred on February 27, left one passenger injured and a driver abducted. This latest attack underscores the persistent threat posed by insurgents in the region. Here’s what we know so far.
The Attack: How It Happened
The attack took place around 1:15 p.m. near the deserted village of Tufa in Banki Local Government Area. According to Bello Abba, the driver of the targeted vehicle (registration number Adamawa JMT 994 YR), he was transporting six passengers from Maiduguri to Banki when gunmen on motorcycles emerged from the bush and opened fire.
In a desperate attempt to escape, Abba made a U-turn back toward Banki town. However, during the chaos, one passenger, Mohammed Ali Yaye, a 38-year-old from Bama town, was shot in the left leg. Another driver, whose identity remains unknown, was abducted by the terrorists.
The Aftermath: Troops Respond
Troops from Operation Hadin Kai arrived at the scene shortly after the attack, but the assailants had already fled. The injured victim, Mohammed Ali Yaye, received initial treatment at the Primary Health Care Center (PHCC) in Banki before being referred to the General Hospital in Mora, Cameroon, for further medical attention.
The Bigger Picture: A Persistent Threat
This attack is a grim reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Borno State and the wider Lake Chad region. Despite efforts by the Nigerian military and regional forces, ISWAP and other terrorist groups continue to carry out deadly ambushes, kidnappings, and attacks on civilians and security personnel.