Cameroon: Boko Haram attacks in Far North Jan 15-16

Event

Suspected Boko Haram militants killed at least four people in simultaneous attacks carried out in the Far North region overnight January 15-16. Militants raided three villages in the Tourou area, located near the border with Nigeria, setting fire to a hundred houses. Militants also reportedly looted several grocery stores. Further such attacks in the Far North region are possible in the coming weeks.

Context

Although the counterinsurgency effort against Boko Haram that began in 2015 - led by West African states (Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger) - has greatly diminished the extent of the group's effective territorial control, the group continues to routinely carry out deadly terrorist attacks. Boko Haram's stronghold remains in northeastern Nigeria, and the majority of its activities are concentrated in this area. However, the Far North region of Cameroon, especially areas along the border with Nigeria, also regularly experiences attacks attributed to Boko Haram militants; the group’s presence in Far North dates back to at least 2011.

Advice

Individuals present in Cameroon are advised to 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 citizens in or planning travel to Cameroon 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.