Police, Civilians Repel Boko Haram Attack on Banki

A combined team of police officers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) successfully repelled a Boko Haram attack on a military base in Banki town, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, over the weekend.

Residents told that the terrorists launched the assault late in the night, targeting security formations in the border community near Cameroon. However, swift response from the Nigeria Police Force and the CJTF thwarted the invasion after intense gunfire that lasted several hours.

Community sources commended the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Banki for his bravery and leadership during the incident. According to a resident identified simply as Aminu, the DPO was advised to flee when the insurgents advanced into the town, but he refused and instead coordinated the joint defence effort.

“They told him to run for safety, but he said he would not abandon the people. He led his men and the Civilian JTF to confront the attackers until they were forced to retreat,” Aminu said.

Another resident, who also spoke anonymously, said the attackers were eventually repelled after sustained exchange of fire, noting that normalcy has since returned to the area.

Security sources in Borno confirmed the attack but said details of casualties were still being compiled. They added that reinforcement had been deployed to strengthen security around Banki and its surrounding villages.

Banki, a border community with Cameroon, has suffered repeated attacks by Boko Haram insurgents over the years due to its strategic location and military presence.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to sustain peace and stability in the area.