On Monday, a tragic ambush by Boko Haram resulted in the deaths of at least five individuals, including soldiers and a village head, in the Marte Local Government Area of Borno State. The attack occurred near New Marte during the night, leaving several others wounded.eports indicate that the ambush targeted a military convoy returning from a mission. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with gunfire erupting unexpectedly, leading to panic among those present.
Among the victims was the overall chairman of a civilian taskforce in Marte, highlighting the significant loss to the local community. The deceased included Mai Musinema, the village head, and two soldiers who were part of the convoy.
A security source confirmed the identities of the victims, noting the impact of the attack on the civilian taskforce, which plays a crucial role in local security efforts. The loss of leadership within the taskforce raises concerns about the ongoing fight against insurgency in the region.
Following the ambush, those critically injured were transported to Maiduguri for urgent medical care. Meanwhile, others who sustained minor injuries remained in New Marte, receiving treatment from local health providers.
In the days leading up to the attack, efforts were made to repair the deteriorating road between New Marte and Dikwa. This initiative aimed to enhance safety for motorists in an area frequently targeted by insurgents.
The convoy was reportedly returning from these road improvement efforts when it came under heavy fire. The attackers took advantage of the vulnerable situation, resulting in a devastating loss of life.
A top member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) expressed grief over the incident, emphasizing the loss of two chairmen, including the overall chairman in Marte LGA. This loss is seen as a significant blow to local governance and security initiatives.
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In the aftermath of the ambush, the deceased were laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites in New Marte. The community mourns the loss of its leaders and grapples with the ongoing threat posed by insurgent groups.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent instability in the region and the challenges faced by both military and civilian forces in combating terrorism. The need for enhanced security measures and community resilience has never been more critical.