In a deadly assault, Boko Haram insurgents attacked a Nigerian military camp in Borno State on November 16, 2024, leaving at least 20 soldiers dead, according to military sources. The attack occurred in the town of Kareto, located in northern Borno, a region that has been embroiled in insurgency for over a decade.
The assailants, believed to be affiliated with the Islamic State, launched the attack using a combination of weapons, including a suicide car bomb.
Military sources told Channels TV that the Boko Haram terrorists destroyed a military vehicle during the attack, with some soldiers fleeing the scene. However, the insurgents managed to take control of the camp, setting it ablaze along with 14 vehicles.
The attackers seized four four-wheel-drive vehicles and a substantial amount of weaponry, including heavy machine guns, before retreating. The full extent of the casualties has yet to be officially confirmed, but sources estimate that around 20 soldiers lost their lives in the assault.
Governor Zulum Condemns Attack, Vows Continued Support for Armed Forces
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, condemned the attack, offering condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers. In a statement issued on November 19, 2024, Governor Zulum expressed his sorrow, stating, “On behalf of the government and good people of Borno, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the armed forces and families of the deceased. May Allah rest their souls.”
He further emphasized that the attack was a grim reminder of Boko Haram’s continued efforts to disrupt the state’s recovery efforts, particularly the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes in northern Borno. Kareto is one of more than 20 towns being considered for the resettlement of IDPs.
Governor Zulum reaffirmed his commitment to securing the state, stating that this attack would not deter the government’s efforts to fulfill its responsibilities to the people. He expressed gratitude to the armed forces and security agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding Borno and urged the people to remain steadfast in supporting the military in their ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.
We are eternally grateful to our gallant military and security forces for all they have been doing to safeguard lives and property in our state,” said Governor Zulum. He also assured the public that the Borno State Government would continue to work closely with the armed forces to implement development and peacebuilding initiatives.
The Ongoing Fight Against Boko Haram
The assault on Kareto is the latest in a series of attacks by Boko Haram insurgents, who continue to pose a significant threat to the region despite ongoing military efforts to reclaim territory and restore peace.
It is shame that our security our system cannot curtailed this rascas called boko haram,what where they doing don’t they have agent gathering information for them,how can 20 twenty soldiers be killed in a single attack