Boko Haram Insurgents Execute Deadly Raid on Cameroonian Troops in Wulgo
Boko Haram insurgents killed at least 20 Cameroonian troops in a raid on Wulgo, using disguises to infiltrate military positions. The attack, which lasted approximately two hours, left bases burned and weapons seized. This incident is part of the broader jihadist violence that has plagued northeastern Nigeria and its neighboring countries, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and significant disruptions to local communities.
On Tuesday morning, Boko Haram insurgents disguised as herders launched a deadly raid on Cameroonian troops stationed in Wulgo, a border town near Nigeria. Local security sources report that at least 20 soldiers were killed in this surprise attack. The offensive occurred at approximately 1:00 AM, continuing for roughly two hours, during which the insurgents overpowered the troops and set military bases ablaze after capturing heavy weaponry.
The raiders reportedly infiltrated Wulgo from the nearby commercial hub of Gamboru, where they had mingled with herders before executing their plan under the cover of night. Witnesses in Gamboru recounted hearing intense gunfire and explosions during the assault. Muhammad Sani Umar, a local resident, observed military trucks transporting 13 corpses back to Cameroon following the violence, and described the destruction left at the military bases, which included torched buildings and damaged vehicles.
The ongoing jihadist conflict, which has escalated since 2009, has resulted in approximately 40,000 deaths and left 2.3 million people displaced in northeastern Nigeria. The Lake Chad area, which comprises parts of Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, has become increasingly affected, disrupting the livelihoods of about 40 million inhabitants,
At present, there are notable concerns regarding the coordination among the coalition fighting militancy in the region, as deteriorating relations between Nigeria and Niger complicate collaborative efforts. Boko Haram has circumvented setbacks since losing its stronghold in Sambisa in 2021 by relocating to the Lake Chad region, targeting areas such as Wulgo and Waza.
Historically, Wulgo has faced repeated attacks, with Boko Haram militants targeting civilians, including loggers and farmers, under the pretense of accusing them of espionage. Earlier violent engagements this year included attacks that resulted in numerous fatalities among Nigerian soldiers, emphasizing the persistent threat posed by these extremist factions.
The recent assault by Boko Haram insurgents on Cameroonian military positions in Wulgo highlights the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in the region. The blending of militants into civilian settings showcases a tactic designed to exploit vulnerabilities, while the overall jihadist violence in the area continues to displace thousands and disrupt local livelihoods. Strained diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Niger further complicate efforts to combat these militant groups collaboratively. The situation necessitates improved coordination and strategic initiatives to curb the escalating violence.
Original Source: www.bryantimes.com
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