20 killed in Nigeria terror attack

At least 15 of the victims are suspected Boko Haram militants

At least 20 people, including 15 suspected Boko Haram militants, were killed when members of the radical Islamist group attacked a mosque in Nigeria's north eastern state of Plateau, military officials said today.

Officials said only five residents were killed while the palace of a traditional ruler was set on fire by the militants in Damboa town in Plateau state.

Military spokesman Capt Aliyu Ibrahim Danja said, "no fewer than 15 Boko Haram terror suspects were killed in the early hours of Saturday, while the troops repelled the gunmen in Damboa at a mosque and a palace of the District Head."

Danja said weapons, including a rocked propelled grenade tub, two rocket propelled grenade bombd, five AK 47 rifles, a pick-up vehicle and assorted ammunition, were recovered from the slain terrorists.

"The terrorists sneaked into the town at about 4.30 AM., and attacked worshippers in a mosque, killing five of them. They also set ablaze the official residence and palace of the District Head along with some shops, public and residential buildings," he said.

"While they were unleashing their mayhem, troops under 7 Division engaged the terrorists, killing 15 of them in the process while others fled in disarray. Efforts are on to trace and destroy the fleeing terror suspects," he added.

Late last month, 50 students were killed in their sleep by suspected Boko Haram militants in northeast Nigeria.

The group has killed more than 3,000 people since it started a bloody uprising in 2009.

The oil-rich country's government had declared a state of emergency in three states where the militants are very active.

Nigeria has 36 states and the country's population is more than 150 million.