Police Successfully Repel Coordinated Terrorist Attacks in Borno State
In a decisive security operation, personnel from the Borno State Police Command have effectively thwarted coordinated assaults by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on the communities of Nganzai and Damasak in Borno State. The attacks, which occurred in the early hours of April 4, 2026, were met with a robust and swift response from security forces, preventing further devastation.
Nganzai Divisional Police Headquarters Under Siege
According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Nahum Daso, the command's spokesperson, the initial attack unfolded at approximately 1:00 a.m. when armed terrorists, suspected to be members of Boko Haram and ISWAP, targeted the Nganzai Divisional Police Headquarters. Their objective was to overrun the community situated along the strategic Maiduguri–Monguno road.
Daso detailed that divisional police officers, bolstered by operatives from the Police Mobile Force (PMF) and the state Crack Squad, engaged the insurgents in an intense gun battle that lasted for about an hour. The attackers employed Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and other advanced weaponry, causing significant damage to parts of the police station and partially burning an unserviceable Armoured Personnel Carrier.
Tragically, four police personnel made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty while protecting the community from the onslaught.
Simultaneous Attack on Damasak IDP Camp
In a related incident around 2:40 a.m. the same day, terrorists launched an assault on the Mallam Fatori Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Damasak, a border town near the Niger Republic. The attack specifically targeted a Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and hunters' post at the main gate of the camp.
During this assault, a member of the hunters' group, identified as 40-year-old Atom Abua, was killed. Additionally, approximately 20 thatched huts and other properties were destroyed, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the area.
Coordinated Response and Enhanced Security Measures
A combined team comprising police, military personnel, CJTF members, and local hunters responded promptly to both incidents, successfully repelling the attackers and averting further loss of life and property. Following the attacks, Commissioner of Police Naziru Abdulmajid deployed additional manpower and operational assets to Nganzai and Damasak to reinforce security and prevent any further incursions.
CP Abdulmajid commended the bravery and resilience of the officers who confronted the attackers, effectively preventing them from overrunning Nganzai township. He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen personnel and assured that ongoing efforts are being made to track down and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Appeal for Public Vigilance and Support
The police command has urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while continuing to support security agencies with credible information. The command reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across Borno State, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in combating terrorism.
This incident underscores the persistent security challenges in the region and highlights the critical role of coordinated efforts between various security forces and local communities in maintaining stability and safety.
