Nigerian soldiers

The Nigerian Army said its troops have foiled a suicide bomb attack at a check point in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno state.

A statement issued by Army spokesman, Col. Sani Usman on Monday said the female suicide bomber was killed while two soldiers and a civilian were injured in the incident.

Usman said the incident occurred on Sunday evening near the Kara cattle market in Dikwa.

He said: “On Sunday 11th September 2016, evening,  a suspected female suicide bomber was seen approaching troops  check point located at Kara Cattle market axis, towards Antul and Mukdala,  Dikwa LGA, Borno.

“She was challenged from afar by the vigilant duty sentry, she refused to stop claiming to be coming from Monguno to see her parents in Dikwa.

“Troops sensing the direction of approach was suspicious and abnormal, fired a shot at her and the gallant sentry was proven right.

“She was carrying an explosive device which exploded, killing her instantly and  causing minor injury on 2 soldiers and a  Civilian JTF assisting them.’’

Usman said the injured soldiers and the civilian were treated and have since continued with their duties.

He said the incident has shown that there are a few of the remaining insurgents were determined to carry out criminal acts to create panic and insecurity in some areas.

Usman added that there was reliable information that remnants of the Boko Haram terrorists now disguised as mad men or women in order to gain access to some locations especially in Maiduguri.

“Consequently, all should be very wary of any seemingly mentally unstable or mad men or women found wandering and report same.

“Therefore, it is imperative for all to be more security conscious and vigilant especially during the Eid festivities and public holidays.’’

NAN reports that troops in the north east have been on high alert following reports of plans by Boko Haram to cause fear and panic during the sallah festivities.