Terrorists from the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) ambushed a recovery team of soldiers and civilians in Dumba village, Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, on Tuesday.
The mission aimed to recover the bodies of 40 farmers killed earlier by insurgents. The team, comprising 54 civilian volunteers—including hunters, vigilantes, and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) members—along with soldiers, was attacked en route to Dumba. Many remain unaccounted for after the ambush, according to security sources.
A lone survivor among the volunteers returned to Baga but was too shaken to recount the events. Soldiers reportedly resisted the attackers but were overwhelmed by superior firepower.
“They had recovered and buried 15 bodies before the ambush. Many are still missing, and it’s unclear if they’re in hiding or captured,” said a CJTF member.
Fishermen in the area reported heavy gunfire and fighter jet deployments during the clash, forcing them to flee for safety.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, visiting Baga, expressed sympathy for the victims while criticizing the military for allowing farmers to access unsafe areas. Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the killings and urged the government to intensify civilian protection and ensure justice.
Farmers have called for relocation to safer zones, citing frequent attacks and forced levies imposed by insurgents for farmland access.
