Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have killed four charcoal traders and abducted four others during an attack in Gassarwa bush, Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State.
As gathered, the incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. on January 31, when the traders from Monguno Local Government Area went into the bush to burn firewood for charcoal.
Confirming the incident on Monday, the Chairman of the Charcoal Traders Union in Monguno, Babagana Mallam, identified the deceased as Kaka Konto, Mainayi Modu, Alhaji Abba Bunu, and Ibrahim Modu.
He added that, in addition to those killed, two other traders, Bakura Bale and Bakura Abbagana, sustained gunshot wounds during the attack and are currently receiving treatment at a health facility.
Mallam further disclosed that four others, Adamu Yerima, Bukar Geidam, Dauda Zara, and Bukar Sale, were abducted by the assailants and taken to an unknown location.
“This was a direct attack on innocent traders who posed no threat to anyone. Our members were simply trying to earn a living when gunmen descended on them and started shooting,” he said.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the slain traders were later released to their families for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
Following the attack, security operatives, including troops of Operation HADIN KAI, police tactical units, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, hunters, and local vigilantes, moved to the area.
According to a security source, search-and-rescue operations are ongoing to locate the abducted traders.
“Efforts are being intensified to track the perpetrators and secure the release of those taken away,” the source said, adding that communities have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.
