Boko Haram attacks Gombe

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines Saturday, February 14th, 2015

Boko Haram fighters have attacked the north-east Nigerian city of Gombe, residents said.

Fighters overran a checkpoint on the edge of the city and explosions and gunfire could be heard, witnesses added.

The BBC says Nigerian troops backed by a fighter jet were trying to drive the militants back.

Nigeria has postponed elections due to be held on Saturday amid concerns over the insurgency in the north-east, the BBC reports.

Gombe – capital of Gombe State – has previously suffered suicide attacks but the BBC says this is the first time Boko Haram has launched a direct assault on the city.

Reports said militants first attacked the town of Dadin Kowa, about 40km (25 miles) from Gombe.

Ground troops with air support then battled to keep the insurgents from entering the city.

 

 

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