Two policemen were killed in an early morning attack on the Nganzai Police Division in Gwoza Local Government Area by suspected Boko Haram terrorists. In a separate incident nearby, a number of firewood scavengers were reportedly slaughtered by the assailants.
The attack occurred on Thursday at approximately 12:10 am.
Five survivors suffered serious injuries after stepping on an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) while attempting to confront the terrorists.
The incident was confirmed in a press statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, on Thursday evening.
The statement also noted that two hand grenades were recovered by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team from CBRN Base 13 Maiduguri, and the bodies of the deceased have been transported to the State General Hospital in 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.