Cameroon: Suspected Boko Haram fighters kill three in Far North Jan. 23

Event

Suspected Boko Haram fighters attacked the village of Manguirlda (Far North region) at approximately 22:00 (local time) on Wednesday, January 23. According to reports, the militants were attempting to abduct a Western priest present in the village's church. At least three people were killed in the attack before local security forces repelled the assailants. Further attacks by Boko Haram militants are possible in the area in the coming days and weeks.

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 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 (e.g. 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.