File - In this file photo taken Thursday, Aug. 8, 2013, a Nigerian soldier patrols in an armored car, during Eid al-Fitr celebrations, in Maiduguri, Nigeria.
Maiduguri:
Security officials and a witness say fighters from Nigeria's Boko Haram militant have seized Gwoza town, overwhelming soldiers based in the northeast area before attacking civilians.
They said on Thursday that the new Emir of Gwoza, Muhammed Idrissa Timta, has also gone missing after attackers were seen approaching his residence during the attack on Wednesday. Timta succeeded his father who was killed by Boko Haram in May.
Residents have fled to mountainous areas near the town. A resident said gunmen who attacked Gwoza were dressed in military fatigues and rode vehicles painted in the same colors. The resident spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear for his safety.
Two security officials confirmed the attack, but could not be named because they weren't authorised to speak to media.
They said on Thursday that the new Emir of Gwoza, Muhammed Idrissa Timta, has also gone missing after attackers were seen approaching his residence during the attack on Wednesday. Timta succeeded his father who was killed by Boko Haram in May.
Residents have fled to mountainous areas near the town. A resident said gunmen who attacked Gwoza were dressed in military fatigues and rode vehicles painted in the same colors. The resident spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear for his safety.
Two security officials confirmed the attack, but could not be named because they weren't authorised to speak to media.
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