At least 15 farmers and firewood gatherers have reportedly been killed by suspected terrorists in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State.

The incident occurred in the Marte area, with the victims said to have been attacked while carrying out their farming and other livelihood activities.

Three other persons were also reported missing following the attack, raising concerns over the fate of those who may have been taken away by the assailants.

The Borno State Police Command confirmed the death of 15 persons in the incident, while noting that efforts were ongoing to obtain further details about the attack.

The latest incident adds to the security concerns confronting residents of communities in parts of Borno State, particularly those whose livelihoods depend on farming and other activities outside their immediate settlements.

Farmers and other residents in affected areas have repeatedly faced security challenges while accessing their farms and gathering firewood.

The circumstances surrounding the attack, including the identities of the victims and the whereabouts of the three missing persons, were still being clarified as of the time of filing the report.

Security agencies are expected to continue investigations into the incident and efforts to establish the circumstances leading to the deaths and locate those reported missing.

The attack has once again highlighted the vulnerability of rural communities in parts of Borno State to attacks by suspected terrorists.