Cameroon: Suicide bombings in Kolofata (Far North region) June 2

Event

According to local officials and police sources, a double suicide bombing was carried out in Kolofata - located near the Nigerian border in the Far North region - on Friday, June 2. At least four people have been killed and 20 others injured in the attack, which targeted a refugee camp for civilians displaced by Boko Haram militant activities. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack but Boko Haram is suspected.

Context

The Far North region of Cameroon, especially areas along the border with Nigeria, regularly experiences significant violence attributed to Islamist 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 the attack site, to limit time in areas deemed particularly likely to be targeted in a terrorist attack (crowded markets, etc.), and to 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.