Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters on Monday alerted the public on new tactics being employed Boko Haram terrorists to pull crowds to be killed via suicide bomb attacks.

Acting Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Rabe Abubakar, said yesterday evening: “Some of such tactics they now use include crying and feigning pains and shouting to attract sympathy from unsuspecting public. When a lot of people of goodwill gather to render help in the process, the suicide bomber detonates bombs which they conceal under their clothes. The recent suicide bombing in Damaturu is instructive.

“Similarly, suicide bombers used monetary incentives and other inducements especially in crowded places to lure innocent citizens in order to cause colossal damage to both lives and property. Yola suicide incident is fresh in our memory.”

Defence Headquarters advised citizens “to be wary of such antics of the terrorists who are losing out in their former enclaves and are now desperate to remain relevant by using any means to perpetuate fear in the minds of the populace.”

It also warned citizens “to be extra vigilant and weary of terrorist malevolence in such places as parks, worship centres and recreation spots particularly in this festive period. Citizens are advised to report suspicious persons or objects to security agencies for prompt action.”

•Photo shows Defence Spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar.