Nigeria: Authorities report May 24 suspected militants killed 30 people in Mudu, Borno State

Event

Local militia commanders in Borno State reported May 24 that suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants had recently killed 30 people in the village of Mudu, located east of Maiduguri. ISWAP fighters reportedly detained men from Mudu May 21 and executed them for allegedly providing intelligence on the group to the Nigerian military. Information regarding the attack was delayed due to militants destroying telecommunication towers in the area.

Context

Northeast Nigeria, notably Borno State, is highly susceptible to attacks and kidnappings by Islamist groups, including ISWAP and Boko Haram. Despite a military presence there, militants will continue to pose a significant threat to security in the border areas with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger, with regular attacks on civilian settlements and security forces positions almost certain to continue.

Advice

Liaise with trusted contacts and confirm the viability of conducting operations in Borno State. Heed the directives of local security forces and travel with easily accessible personal identification to facilitate movement through checkpoints. Maintain regular contact with your diplomatic mission, travel only in convoy, and avoid all travel after dark.