Suspected Boko Haram insurgents launched a midnight attack on a police station in Malari, Borno State, but were swiftly repelled by security forces.
Local security sources reported that the assault occurred around 1:00 am on Wednesday, with the terrorists attempting to storm the station. However, a combined team of police officers and soldiers overpowered them in a fierce gun battle.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Daso, stated that the attackers were forced to retreat, preventing them from entering the town.
“Yes, there was an attack on Malari Police Station, but no casualty was recorded. The officers on duty, in collaboration with the military, successfully repelled the insurgents,” Daso said.
During the assault, the terrorists targeted a police Armoured Personnel Carrier, managing to damage its tyres but failing to destroy the vehicle.
“So far, no bodies have been recovered, but we are certain there were casualties on the side of the insurgents,” he added.
Despite the successful defense, some residents expressed fears that the attackers might regroup and strike again.
“We are scared they may return. We appreciate the efforts of our security forces and urge them to strengthen security measures,” a local resident told The PUNCH anonymously.
The attack comes weeks after Boko Haram militants raided the Nganzai Police Division in Borno, killing two officers.
Borno State Commissioner of Police, Yusufu Lawal, commended the officers for their resilience and assured residents of the police force’s commitment to maintaining security in the region.