Police Thwart Boko Haram and ISWAP Attacks on Borno Communities
In a decisive security operation, personnel from the Borno Police Command have successfully foiled coordinated attacks by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on the communities of Nganzai and Damasak in Borno State. The command, under the leadership of Police Commissioner Naziru Abdulmajid, deployed additional officers to reinforce protection in these areas, particularly focusing on Damasak, a border community with Niger. This strategic deployment was crucial in repelling the insurgents' assaults in the Borno Central Senatorial District, preventing potential overruns and safeguarding residents.
Details of the Attack and Police Response
According to ASP Nahum Daso, the command's spokesperson, the incident occurred on April 4, 2026, at approximately 1:00 a.m., when armed terrorists suspected to be members of Boko Haram and ISWAP launched an attack on the Nganzai Divisional Police Headquarters. The assault was aimed at overrunning the community, which is strategically located along the Maiduguri-Monguno Road. In response, Police Divisional Officers, in collaboration with Police Mobile Force (PMF) operatives and the state's Crack Squad on special duty, engaged the insurgents in a fierce gun battle that lasted for about an hour.
The terrorists employed Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and other sophisticated weapons during the confrontation, causing significant damage to a section of the Nganzai Divisional Police Station. Additionally, they partially torched an unserviceable Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC). Despite the intensity of the attack, the police forces managed to repel the insurgents, though tragically, four police personnel lost their lives in the line of duty while protecting the community.
Burial of Fallen Officers
In a solemn ceremony, the Borno Police Command laid to rest the four officers who were killed during the operation. The deceased were identified as Inspector Samuel Ezekiel of the Nganzai Division, Inspector Sanusi Mohammed of the 58 PMF Lafiya, Police Constable Bitrus Luka of the Crack Squad BRS, and Police Constable Shaibu Bukar of the Crack Squad BRS. The interment took place on April 5, 2026, at the Kawar Maila Burial Ground and the Maximum Prison Burial Ground in Maiduguri, conducted in accordance with religious rites to honor their sacrifice.
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in Borno State, where police and other security forces continue to confront terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP. The successful repulsion of these attacks highlights the resilience and dedication of the police in protecting vulnerable communities, even at great personal cost. The command remains vigilant, with enhanced deployments to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of residents in the region.
