Cameroon: Fatalities reported following militant attack in Far North region November 25

Event

At least three civilians were reportedly killed during an attack by suspected Boko Haram militants in Gabass village of Koza subdivision (Far North region) on Wednesday, November 25. Reports indicate that one villager was also abducted by the militants. The militants raided the village late on Wednesday night. Security forces are reportedly conducting search and rescue operations in the region to locate the attackers and the abducted civilian.

Separately, militants attacked Guidi village on Wednesday night and burnt down multiple houses. No casualties have been immediately reported in this attack.

Security operations and further militant attacks are likely in the region in the near term.

Context

Although regional counterinsurgency efforts since 2015 have diminished Boko Haram's effective territorial control, various groups have expressed concerns about the resurgence of terrorist attacks targeting security forces and displaced communities in Cameroon's Far North. Boko Haram's stronghold remains in northeastern Nigeria and the majority of its activities are concentrated in this area. However, the militant group has maintained a presence in the Far North dating back to 2011 and the region regularly experiences attacks, particularly in areas along the Nigerian border.

Advice

Those in the Far North Region are advised to limit time in areas deemed particularly likely to be targeted in terrorist attacks (e.g. crowded markets, etc.) and report any suspicious items or activity to security forces.

Some Western governments advise 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.