Boko Haram attacks Nigeria immigration staff convoy killing 5 civilians

Five traders have been killed after a Boko Haram ambush of a Nigerian immigration staff convoy travelling to Maiduguri in the northeast on Monday.

According to witnesses, the traders had taken advantage of the official convoy to travel to the capital of the Borno State, AFP reports.

“The convoy was going towards Gamboru (on the border with northern Cameroon) on Monday when it was caught in a trap set up by Boko Haram 25 kilometers away,” an army officer said on condition of anonymity on Wednesday.

“The three immigration officers were injured in the attack but managed to escape to Maiduguri, leaving the traders in the hands of the attackers,” he added and also confirmed that “five traders were killed and their trucks burned.”

A resident in Gamboru, Ari Umar also confirmed the death of the five traders and said two trucks were looted and burned.

“For two months there had been no incidents because vehicles of traders were escorted by the military,” Ari added.

The road between Maiduguri and Gamboru, on the border with Cameroon, which is a trade route for the two countries was reopened by the Nigerian authorities two months ago after it was closed due to Boko Haram attacks.

According to residents, Boko Haram fighters still lurk around the community despite military offensives.