On June 27, 2014, two suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers were killed while attempting to attack worshippers at a Ramadan vigil on Damboa Road.
The incident occurred just before sundown as residents gathered for tarawih prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to a senior security officer, the attackers detonated their explosives prematurely after being confronted by vigilantes, killing only themselves.
“Had they succeeded in reaching the crowd, the casualties would have been massive,” the officer said.
“Our local vigilantes responded quickly and forced the confrontation before they could reach the mosque area.”
Damboa Road has been a frequent target due to its strategic link between Maiduguri and the restive town of Damboa, which has seen repeated attacks throughout 2014. The attack comes just one day after insurgents struck villages in the Damboa district, leaving dozens dead.
Borno State has been under a state of emergency since May 2013 as security forces battle the insurgency.
The Borno State Emergency Management Agency urged residents to remain vigilant during Ramadan prayers and report suspicious activity.
