At least 15 civilians have been killed in an attack by suspected Boko Haram militants in Nigeria’s northeastern Borno State, according to police and local human-rights officials.

The attack occurred in the villages of Ala, Gummna and Musune in Marte Local Government Area, around 130 kilometres northeast of Maiduguri, the state capital. The victims were reportedly farmers and residents who had gone into surrounding areas to gather firewood and carry out agricultural activities.

Police said the violence occurred between late Wednesday and early Thursday. Three additional residents were reported missing after the attack, prompting concern that the final number of victims could change as security personnel and community members continue searching the area.

Local residents recovered the bodies from surrounding bushland and buried the victims according to Islamic customs. Reports said the victims included both younger residents and village elders.

The attack has renewed concerns about the security situation in rural communities across Borno State, where armed groups have carried out attacks against civilians and security forces for more than a decade.

Amnesty International condemned the killing of civilians and called for stronger protection for vulnerable communities in northeastern Nigeria. The organisation said residents should be able to travel into surrounding areas to earn a living and collect essential resources without facing attacks.

Security forces are continuing efforts to determine the full circumstances of the attack and locate the three people who remain missing. Authorities are also working to establish the identity of those responsible and whether the attackers were connected to a larger militant network.

For communities in Marte and other parts of Borno, the incident highlights the continuing difficulties faced by people living in areas affected by militant violence. Access to farmland, firewood and other basic resources can expose residents to significant security risks.

The latest attack adds to the long-running humanitarian and security challenges in northeastern Nigeria, where civilians remain among those most affected by armed violence.