Residents of Borno State have been thrown into panic after suspected insurgents stormed Debiro community, setting a church and no fewer than 25 houses ablaze in a renewed wave of violence.
The attackers, believed to be members of Boko Haram, reportedly invaded the farming settlement in large numbers, arriving on multiple motorcycles while disguising themselves as local security volunteers.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants initially attempted to gather villagers under false pretences before launching the destructive assault. However, residents quickly sensed danger and fled into nearby bushes, preventing what many feared could have resulted in mass casualties.
Although no deaths were recorded during the raid, several structures were reduced to rubble. In addition to the church and residential buildings, harvested food supplies and vehicles parked within the community were also set on fire.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, said the attack shattered a year-long period of relative calm in the area.
“People had begun to believe the worst was over,” the source said. “Farmers had just completed harvest and were preparing to transport their produce to town when armed men suddenly appeared dressed like vigilantes. Once villagers realised something was wrong, everyone ran.”
He added that Debiro’s rocky terrain made it difficult for the attackers to chase fleeing residents on motorcycles, a factor he believes helped prevent loss of life.
Debiro is located about 48 kilometres from Biu, the administrative headquarters of Biu Local Government Area. The agrarian community depends largely on farming, making the destruction of harvested crops a significant economic blow.
Security fears have heightened across southern parts of the state in recent weeks, with similar attacks reported in neighbouring communities such as Harang and Tarfa, where at least five people were killed.
Residents and local leaders have repeatedly complained about poor road infrastructure, which they say delays rapid military response during emergencies.
“By the time help arrives, the damage is already done,” another villager lamented.
As of press time, authorities have yet to release an official statement on the latest incident. Nonetheless, the renewed assault highlights the persistent security challenges facing rural communities in Borno despite ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.
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