14 Jun 2020 | 05:29 AM UTC
Nigeria: Militant attacks kill scores in Borno state June 13
Militants kill scores of people in attacks in Borno state on June 13; further attacks and security operations are possible in the near term
Event
Militants killed at least 20 soldiers and 40 civilians in two attacks carried out in the Monguno and Nganzai Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Borno state on Saturday, June 13. Attackers armed with heavy weaponry targeted Monguno at 11:00 (local time) and overran government forces based in the area, wounding hundreds of civilians during the fighting. The assailants burned down a UN facility in the area and the local police station, and issued pamphlets warning residents to avoid working with the military or international aid organizations. Militants also attacked Nganzai during the same time period and killed over 40 people. The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militant group claimed responsibility for the attack, and for an attack staged in Gubio LGA (Borno state) on Tuesday, June 9, which resulted in 69 fatalities. Neither the Nigerian military nor the UN has commented on these developments.
Further attacks and associated security operations are likely in the area in the near term.
Context
The northeastern region of Nigeria (i.e. the states of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa) is highly susceptible to attacks by Islamist militants, including from Boko Haram and Islamic State-West Africa Province (ISWAP). Though Nigerian military forces have pushed insurgents from much of their previously claimed territory, attacks have been on the rise since June 2017.
Advice
Individuals in Borno state are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Nigeria remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
