The Joint Task Force (JTF) in Borno State and the Islamic sect, Boko Haram, were yesterday locked in a shootout at a wedding in Maiduguri, leaving three guests dead and several others injured.

It was learnt that a detachment of the task force stormed the wedding at Sabon Layi, Gwange area following a tip-off that notable members of the sect on its wanted list would be there.

On sighting the military men the Boko Haram members in attendance allegedly opened fire prompting response from the soldiers.

Witnesses said several people were hit by the flying bullets. Three died on the spot and others were injured.

It was gathered that most of the Boko Haram members in attendance shot their way out of possible capture.

 

Confirming the incident in a statement the JTF spokesman, Lt. Col. Sagir Musa said: “Credible information at the disposal of the JTF Operation Restore Order revealed that two top Boko Haram terrorists on the wanted list of the task force sneaked into Maiduguri to attend a wedding Fatiha of one of their own in Sabon Layi, Gwange in Maiduguri metropolis.

“Consequently, at about 0835 hours today (yesterday), the task force mounted surveillance about 200 metres away from the wedding venue.

“The terrorists within the Fatiha sensing danger opened fire sporadically on the surveillance team and the area. This led to the death of three civilians and two wounded from the fire of the terrorists and two were arrested.”

The spokesman said an AK47 rifle, 20 rounds of ammunition and a vehicle used by the terrorists were recovered.

He, however, said two soldiers sustained gunshot injuries but are stable and responding to treatment.

 

Musa warned the member of the public not to attend any wedding organized by members of the sect