Terrorists abduct scores of passengers, set trucks of food items ablaze in Maiduguri

Suspected Boko Haram terrorists yesterday abducted scores of passengers and drivers along Maiduguri- Damaturu road, setting ablaze some trucks loaded with food items as well as a petrol tanker.

This came as Nigerian Army said it had recovered no fewer than 706 small arms and light weapons from bandits and other criminals in areas of operation in Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto and Kebbi states.

Similarly,  Zamfara State Government called on emirs to redouble their efforts in tackling security challenges in the state.

The terrorist attack took place between Mainok and Lawan Mainari village, less than 50 kilometres drive to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

According to a motorist who escaped from the scene, Mohammed Abdullahi, “the incident took place at about 9 am, where a convoy of terrorists was sighted at their crossing point leading to Sambisa forest. Although, I had to make a quick u-turn back to Maiduguri when a noticed that the insurgents opened fire on some trucks loaded with food items, including a petrol tanker which was also set ablaze. Unfortunately, I suspected that some passengers and motorists were abducted by the insurgents.”

While there was no official confirmation of the attack at the time of this report, security personnel who spoke to Vanguard on condition of anonymity, said troops responded promptly and pursued the terrorists.

According to him, three vehicles belonging to the fleeing terrorists were recovered by troops of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’.

SOURCE : Vanguard Newspaper