Cameroon: Attack in Far North leaves two dead November 7

Event

Two civilians were killed by suspected Boko Haram militants during an attack on a village in Mayo-Tsanaga department (Far North region) overnight between Wednesday, November 6, and Thursday, November 7. The group of approximately 30 attackers also reportedly stole livestock and looted several houses in the village.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the region over the coming days as security forces investigate the incident. Similar attacks are possible in the Far North over the near term.

Context

Although the regional 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 their 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; the group's presence in the Far North dates back to at least 2011.

Advice

Individuals in the Far North are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for criminal activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.