At least 12 loggers tragically lost their lives in Borno State when their vehicle struck a landmine suspected to have been planted by Boko Haram jihadists.
The deadly incident occurred near the border with Cameroon as the loggers were en route to collect firewood.
AFP reports indicate that seven others sustained injuries, with three in critical condition.
One of the reports disclosed, “Men suspected to be Boko Haram… planted explosive… and killed 12 people while many were injured along Pulka to Gwoza route.”
The explosion resulted in the death of 12 individuals, and seven additional loggers were injured, three of whom are reportedly in critical condition and have been evacuated to Maiduguri for further medical attention.
There has been a recent surge in mine explosions targeting civilian convoys, with these incidents being attributed to jihadists.
Gwoza, which was seized by Boko Haram in July 2014, has seen ongoing security challenges despite being retaken by Nigerian troops in March 2015. The jihadists continue to raid nearby villages from hideouts in the mountains along the border with Cameroon.
Residents of the affected villages have sought refuge in Gwoza and nearby Pulka, living in camps under military protection.
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Troops are conducting patrols in the area to deter militants from targeting residents who venture into the bush, particularly women collecting acacia fruits and firewood.
Both Boko Haram and the rival Islamic State West Africa Province are known for targeting loggers, farmers, and herders, accusing them of spying for troops and anti-jihadist militia engaged in the fight against them.