Cameroon: Attack in Dzaba (Far North) kills three September 5-6

Event

Suspected Boko Haram militants reportedly attacked the village of Dzaba (Mayo Moskota, Far North region) overnight on Tuesday, September 5, to Wednesday, September 6, killing three people. Eight people were also reportedly abducted and 46 houses were burned. According to local news sources, the attack was carried out after President Paul Biya announced a visit to the Far North Region. Expect an increased security presence and operations in the region in the coming days.

Context

The Far North region of Cameroon, especially areas along the border with Nigeria, regularly experiences attacks attributed to Boko Haram militants. While Boko Haram's main stronghold is in Nigeria, the group has been carrying out attacks in Cameroon since 2013.

Advice

Individuals present in Cameroon are advised to avoid recent attack sites, limit time in areas deemed particularly likely to be targeted in a terrorist attack (crowded markets, etc.), and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities. Some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the Far North region as well as other areas bordering Nigeria, Chad, and the Central African Republic; travel to these areas should only be considered with appropriate security protocols in place.