Four Police Officers and Hunter Killed in Foiled Boko Haram, ISWAP Attacks in Borno
In a tragic incident highlighting ongoing security challenges, four operatives of the Borno State Police Command and a local hunter lost their lives during coordinated attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists. The assaults targeted the Nganzai and Damasak communities, with security forces ultimately repelling the insurgents after intense gun battles.
Details of the Attacks and Casualties
According to official statements, the attacks occurred in the early hours of April 4, 2026, with armed terrorists attempting to overrun the Nganzai Divisional Police Headquarters along the Maiduguri-Monguno Road. The police officers, whose identities have not been fully disclosed, were killed during a fierce gun duel that lasted approximately one hour. Additionally, a 40-year-old member of the Hunters Group, identified as Atom Abua, was fatally wounded in the conflict.
The terrorists, equipped with Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and other sophisticated weapons, caused significant damage to a section of the Nganzai Divisional Police Station and partially torched an unserviceable Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC). Approximately 20 thatched huts and other properties were destroyed in the border community attacks, though no civilian casualties beyond the hunter were reported.
Security Response and Reinforcements
Borno State Police Commissioner Naziru Abdulmajid I confirmed that a combined team of police, military, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and local hunters responded swiftly to the incidents, successfully preventing further loss of life and property. The commissioner has since deployed additional police officers and operational assets to the affected areas, particularly Nganzai and Damasak—the latter being a border community with Niger Republic—to strengthen security and intensify operations.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nahum Daso, the command's spokesperson, detailed that Police Divisional Officers collaborated with Police Mobile Force operatives and a state crack squad on special duty to engage the insurgents. The additional deployment of personnel was credited with repelling the coordinated attacks in the Borno Central Senatorial District.
Official Statements and Community Assurance
Commissioner Abdulmajid commended the bravery and resilience of the officers who confronted the assailants, noting that their actions prevented the terrorists from overrunning Nganzai town. He extended condolences to the families of the deceased personnel and assured them that the command is committed to tracking down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
The police command reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across Borno State, urging the public to remain calm, vigilant, and continue supporting security agencies with credible information. This incident underscores the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups in the region, despite ongoing counterinsurgency efforts.
