Suspected Boko Haram terrorists have reportedly killed 15 farmers and firewood gatherers in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State.
The victims were allegedly ambushed while working around Ala and Musune wards on Wednesday evening.
Sources said 18 people had gone to the area, but only 15 bodies were recovered and buried on Thursday. Three others remain missing.
The Public Relations Officer of the Borno State Police Command, Nahum Daso, confirmed the attack to PUNCH Online on Friday.
“Yes, there was an attack in Marte. 15 people were killed while others are still missing. Efforts are ongoing to determine their whereabouts,” Daso said.
He said details of the incident remained sketchy and that the command would provide further information after completing its investigation.
Local sources identified the victims as peasant farmers and firewood gatherers, including young and elderly residents.
One source alleged that the victims were tied up, forced to lie down and shot at close range.
The source also claimed that some of the victims were decapitated.
Community members reportedly recovered the bodies from the farmland and buried them according to Islamic rites.
Amnesty International condemned the killings, describing the attack as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
The organisation called on Nigerian authorities to take immediate measures to protect vulnerable communities in the affected area.
