Maiduguri, June 21, 2025 – At least ten people have been confirmed dead and seven others injured following a suicide bomb attack at a local fish market in Gwoza, Borno State, in what authorities suspect to be the latest assault by remnants of terror groups operating in the North-East region.
The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon when a female suicide bomber, disguised as a civilian, detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) amidst traders and buyers in the bustling market area, causing chaos and mass casualties. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as people scrambled for safety in the aftermath of the blast.
Emergency responders, including security operatives and humanitarian workers, swiftly moved to evacuate the injured to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment. Officials from the Borno State Emergency Management Agency confirmed the casualty figures and stated that the scene had been secured to prevent further attacks.
Security forces have since launched a preliminary investigation and search operation to track down accomplices or other threats in the area. The identity of the bomber has not been officially disclosed, but initial intelligence suggests links to extremist cells attempting to regroup and exploit soft targets.
The Borno State Government has condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act aimed at disrupting peace and economic recovery efforts in the region. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, especially in crowded public spaces.
This latest attack underscores the ongoing security challenges in the North-East despite progress made by the military in recent years. Analysts warn that while the capacity of insurgent groups has been weakened, sporadic assaults on civilians remain a serious threat that demands sustained intelligence gathering, community engagement, and regional cooperation.
Efforts are ongoing to provide relief and support to the families of the victims as the community mourns the tragic loss of lives.