12 killed in Nigerian violence

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MAIDUGURI, Nigeria, Jan. 24 (UPI) -- Twelve people died in three violent incidents in Maiduguri, Nigeria, and police destroyed 140 explosives, the Abuja newspaper Leadership reported.

Two gunmen killed one person in London Ciki Ward early Wednesday, firing several shots into the air before forcing themselves into his home and shooting him at close range, Leadership reported. The identity of the man was not reported.

Later in the day, an improvised explosive device went off in Kalari Ward. The blast was followed by an hour of gunfire between military forces and insurgents, the newspaper said. At least six people died in the gunfight.

Meanwhile, a group of gunmen killed five people in Jiddari Polo Ward. The attackers held the victims at gunpoint before cutting their throats.

The director of the Borno state Ministry of Animal Resources and Fisheries Development, identified only as Mr. Zakka, was among the dead in Jiddari Polo Ward.

The Wednesday clashes came just one day after a group of seven gunmen killed 18 hunters in Damboa who were trying to sell bush meat at market.