Joint Security Operatives comprised of the Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps have killed three protesters and seven others injured at Kime filling station, Bolori Junction, in Maiduguri the State capital of Borno State.
According to eyewitness accounts at the petrol station, who identified the deceased as staff gave separate accounts of how the three young men died and others were injured.
“As I’m speaking to you, they are still lying in the pool of their blood, the security operatives attacked us and threw grenades at us unfortunately we lost three persons instantly.
Muhammad confirmed that he was with the victims before the blast went off, adding that “I nearly got affected, but as God would have it, I escaped unhurt,”.
However, another source, who pleaded for anonymity said the deceased were hit by stray bullets from the passing anti-riot security convey.
“I was opposite the filling station when the incident happened and I didn’t hear any blast, we just heard sporadic gunshots and the boys were down. Four of them died instantly,” he alleged.
A curfew has been imposed by the Borno State Police Command, citing a Bomb blast that took place in Kawuri village, Konduga local government area of the state, which claimed 16 lives as the reason.
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A statement issued on Thursday by the Borno State Police Command said the curfew was declared by Babagana Umar Zulum, the Executive Governor of Borno State, in consultation with heads of security agencies in the state.
Kenneth Daso, the Police Public Relations Officer, called on the people of Borno State to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that further developments would be communicated accordingly.
The curfew is part of efforts to restore law and order in the state, and the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies are working to ensure the safety of lives and properties.
Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid any unnecessary movements during the curfew period.
