JOINT SECURITY FORCES FOIL TERRORIST ATTEMPTS IN KOFA, DAMBOA; NORMALCY RESTORED
Maiduguri, Nigeria — 16 March 2026
The Borno State Police Command has confirmed that joint security operatives successfully repelled attempted infiltrations by suspected terrorists in parts of Maiduguri and Damboa Local Government Area.
According to the Command, the incidents followed widespread reports of sporadic gunshots and explosions which caused public concern. Preliminary investigations revealed that the disturbances were the result of attempted attacks by suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists at Ajilari Cross in the Kofa area on the outskirts of the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and along the Damboa–Maiduguri road.
Security authorities disclosed that the first incident occurred at about 12:00 midnight on 16 March 2026 at Ajilari Cross in Kofa, while another attempted infiltration was reported around 1:00 a.m. along the Damboa–Maiduguri road axis in Damboa Local Government Area.
In a swift and coordinated response, joint security personnel who were already on heightened alert engaged the insurgents in a gun battle and successfully repelled the attacks, forcing the terrorists to retreat from the affected locations.
The police confirmed that no casualties were recorded among security personnel or civilians during the operations. However, the insurgents are believed to have suffered casualties and injuries, although the exact figures have not yet been verified.
The Commissioner of Police, Borno State Command, reassured residents of the Command’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property while maintaining peace and stability across the state. He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant, avoid spreading unverified information, and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence.
Authorities added that further updates will be provided as investigations and security operations continue.
ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, ANIPR, FCAI
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Borno State Command
16 March 2026