Boko Haram kidnaps Borno High Court judge, wife, orderly, driver

A High Court Judge, Justice Haruna Mshelia, his wife, driver, and orderly were kidnapped by Boko Haram terrorists along the Biu to Maiduguri road on Monday, June 24, 2024.

Sources report that Justice Mshelia, who serves at the Borno State High Court in Maiduguri, was traveling with his driver, security escort, and wife. As they neared a curve on the road between Buratai and Buni-gari, armed men suddenly emerged from the bush and blocked the road.

The judge’s vehicle came to a screeching halt, attempting to maneuver away to escape. In the ensuing chaos, another group of insurgents intercepted the vehicle, capturing Justice Mshelia and his companions. They were then taken hostage and later transported to the Sambisa Forest.

It is worth noting that the Damaturu-Buni Yadi-Buratai-Biu 120km road has been notoriously perilous for many years. Its deplorable condition poses significant risks to motorists and passengers. This route is the sole connection for over five local government areas in Southern Borno (including Biu, Hawul, Bayo, Shani, and Kwaya Kusar) to Maiduguri, the state capital, due to the closure of the Maiduguri-Damboa-Biu road.