Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have reportedly abducted several students sitting the ongoing National Examinations Council (NECO) exams and a number of teachers after attacking Lassa town in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. Read original.
The attack happened on Monday during the town's busy market day, leaving residents fleeing for safety as armed men, said to be wearing military camouflage and riding motorcycles, moved through the community.
According to saharareporters, the attackers stormed the area while students were writing their NECO examinations. They reportedly forced an unspecified number of candidates and teachers away to an unknown location.
At least one teacher was killed during the assault, while the number of other casualties and missing persons had yet to be confirmed as residents continued searching for loved ones.
Residents claimed soldiers stationed in the area were away on patrol to nearby Uba, about 16 kilometres from Lassa, when the insurgents launched the attack.
One eyewitness described the scene, saying: "The soldiers were not around when the terrorists invaded. They came in large numbers, firing sporadically and causing panic everywhere. They took away students writing NECO and their teachers."
When contacted, Borno State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, said security authorities were still gathering information on the incident.
"I am in a meeting. We are gathering evidence. I will call you back," Daso said.
The latest incident adds to growing security concerns in parts of southern Borno State, where several communities have continued to experience attacks despite ongoing military operations against insurgent groups. Authorities are yet to release the official number of those abducted or provide further details on rescue efforts.