THE Theater Command of Operation Lafiya Dole of the Nigerian Army yesterday alerted residents of Borno State on planned attacks by Boko Haram terrorists using beggars and other strategies.

Its Media Coordinator, Col. Mustapha Anka, in a statement in Maiduguri, said: “Under the plan, concealed explosives in bundles of firewood are to be placed in crowded and strategic areas of Maiduguri and environs to cause havoc.”

He stated that the terrorists have also devised a new means of attracting the public by shouting Boko Haram to create panic and lure unsuspecting public for maximum casualty while detonating their bombs during and after the New Year celebrations.

He, therefore, advised residents to be extra vigilant during and after the celebrations, saying the ban on bangers and fireworks was still in force.

Meanwhile, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the state government announced total restriction on vehicular movement during yesterday’s celebration.