UPDATED:Many feared dead as frightened residents remain indoors

      Dozens of people, including Boko Haram insurgents, soldiers, vigilantes and residents have been reportedly killed in the outskirts of Maiduguri this morning during a gun duel. A military officer confirmed that after hours of confrontation, they have successfully voided the Boko Haram insurgents from getting access to the heart of the city. […]

 

 

 

Dozens of people, including Boko Haram insurgents, soldiers, vigilantes and residents have been reportedly killed in the outskirts of Maiduguri this morning during a gun duel.

A military officer confirmed that after hours of confrontation, they have successfully voided the Boko Haram insurgents from getting access to the heart of the city.

“Many of the terrorists have been killed by own troops and others are retreating, we are pursuing them with the aid of air strike,” the officer said.

Our correspondent reports that at  present, there is absolute silence in Maiduguri following the imposition of curfew.

A source at the University of Maiduguri said some injured people are receiving treatment there.

Earlier…. 

 

The Nigerian Defence HeadQuarters  has announced that “ curfew has been imposed on Maiduguri with immediate effect” following the multi-prong attack launched on the town by the dreaded Boko Haram group. 

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on its official twitter handle confirmed ongoing counter terrorism operations around the towns.

The DHQ states: “Troops are repelling a simultaneous attack on Monguno and Maiduguri by terrorist.”

In another tweet: “Coordinated air and land operations are being conducted now.”

 

Earlier…

Nigerian troops are currently trying to contend hundreds of  Boko Haram militants who are trying to attack Maiduguri, the state capital through various directions.

The fight is severe at Jimtilo, a settlement situated about 10 kilometers from the Air Force Base in the state capital.

Jimtilo is along Maiduguri-Damaturu road, the only relatively safe route to Maiduguri from any other part of Nigeria.

At the same time, troops are engaging the insurgents at Monguno, the only town standing in the northern part of BORNO State.

A top security source confirmed that “Monguno is under attack” but did not give more details.

There is a big military facility at Monguno.

Soldiers from the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, armed with sophisticated weapons and armored personnel carriers, supported by youths vigilantes were seen moving towards the direction of the assailants at Jimtilo while a fighter jet has been hovering in the skies since around 7am today.

On the other hand, thousands of people who are living in the outskirts of Maiduguri as well as housing estates have fled their homes.

Endless sound of artillery fire which began since around 4am is continuing.

There is panic among residents as well as heavy gridlock of motorists who are trying to get to safe locations