01 Aug 2024 | 01:37 PM UTC
Nigeria: Curfew implemented across Borno State after a bomb attack in Kawuri, July 31 /update 1
Officials implement 24-hour curfew across Borno State, Nigeria, after bomb attack in Kawuri July 31.
Officials have implemented a 24-hour curfew across Borno State after an improvised explosive device (IED) explosion in Kawuri village on July 31. Police officials said the explosion occurred at around 20:00 at a popular market, leaving at least 16 civilians killed and 20 others injured. Earlier media reports suggested a heavier casualty toll. The curfew has been implemented amid nationwide protests that began Aug. 1, including in parts of Borno. Further details are limited, including specific restrictions associated with the curfew.
Officials will likely maintain a heightened security presence across the state to enforce the measure and restrict the movement of persons and vehicles and commercial activities. Further bombings or attacks cannot be ruled out. Protests may materialize to denounce recurrent insecurity or the measure. Restrictions could be expanded at short notice.
Kawuri is located approximately 50 km (32 mi) southeast of Maiduguri.
Liaise with trusted contacts and confirm the viability of conducting operations in Borno State. Abide by the curfew order. Travel with easily accessible personal identification to facilitate movement through checkpoints. Maintain regular contact with diplomatic missions. Travel only in convoy and during daylight hours. Avoid all protests.
No militant group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. However, the Islamist group Boko Haram has regularly carried out bomb attacks across Borno. Communities are often targeted because they are accused of transmitting information to security forces and militia groups.
Northeast Nigeria, notably Borno State, is highly susceptible to attacks and kidnappings by Islamist groups, including Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram. Despite a heightened military presence, militants will continue to pose a significant threat to security over the near term, particularly in the border areas with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. Regular attacks on civilian settlements and security forces positions are almost certain to continue. Most foreign governments advise against all travel to northeastern Nigeria, particularly Borno.
