Suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP militants launched a violent assault on Kautikari village in the Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State on Thursday evening.

According to eyewitness accounts and local reports, the insurgents entered the community at approximately 6:50 p.m., opening fire indiscriminately and setting numerous residential structures ablaze. The attack has triggered a mass exodus of residents, many of whom fled into nearby bushes to escape the violence.

Background of Repeated Violence

This latest incursion follows a deadly pattern of violence targeting the Christian-dominated community. Kautikari was previously attacked on March 30, 2026, an incident that resulted in significant casualties and widespread displacement. Notable victims of that previous raid included:

• Mallam Bumto: The commanding officer of the local Hunter group, who was killed just one day after returning from Lagos.

• Johanna Peter: A local resident whose wedding was scheduled for the following day.

During the March attack, insurgents systematically looted livestock and essential food supplies, leaving the village largely deserted until residents began to resettle in recent weeks.

Current Situation

A security official from Kautikari, currently stationed in Maiduguri, confirmed the ongoing hostilities but spoke on the condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to address the media.

"Our community is currently under attack. I received distress calls around 6:50 p.m. reporting that the insurgents are wreaking havoc. At this stage, we cannot confirm the number of casualties as residents are still scrambling for safety."

As of Thursday night, the situation remains fluid. There has been no official statement from the Nigerian military or the Borno State Police Command regarding the deployment of reinforcements to the area.