After stories of surrendering their weapons, Boko Haram on Wednesday attacked Shaffa town in Borno State, killing at least 20 people.  The insurgents reportedly stormed Shaffa in several sports utility vehicles as well as motorcycles. They opened fire on villagers and set churches and homes on fire. According to a resident, the attacking insurgents screamed “Allahu akbar!” as they wreaked death and destruction in his community. He said the attack lasted for three hours and left no fewer than 20 victims dead.
 
"As soon as we heard their screams, gunshots followed. My younger brother is among those killed,” said the pastor.

"All our churches as well as many homes were razed down," the resident continued. He added that the insurgents must have targeted the town because of the earlier arrest of their members by security agents.

Shaffa is located in the southern part of Borno State and is about 137 miles from Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.