Borno Woman Returns after 15 years, discovers ₦23.6m Gold She Buried While Fleeing Boko Haram

A Borno woman has recovered gold valued at N23.6 million which she buried in the sand 15 years ago while fleeing a Boko Haram attack in Mallamfatori, Abadam Local Government Area.

Woman shares how she hid the gold

According to reports, the woman, who was much younger at the time, acted out of panic as insurgents advanced toward the community.

With only moments to spare, she wrapped her late mother’s gold coins and jewellery in cloth, placed them inside a jar, and buried it before escaping with other residents.

Fifteen years later, she returned to Mallamfatori and sought the assistance of police officers to locate the exact spot.

Confirming the development on Monday, December 1, 2025, the spokesperson of the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, said officers helped her recover 22cc of gold estimated at ₦20 million, along with a gold bracelet and chain valued at ₦3.6 million.

He noted that the recovered items were intact and have been handed over to the woman.

“The Commissioner of Police, Borno State Police Command, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, PSC, commended the Divisional Police Officer of Mallamfatori Division and his team for their exemplary professionalism and integrity in recovering valuable property belonging to a female resident of the community,” the statement read.

“The woman, who fled Mallamfatori during a Boko Haram attack 15 years ago, recently returned and sought police assistance to retrieve items she had buried in the sand while escaping the incident.

“Through diligent and coordinated efforts, the officers successfully recovered 22 cc of gold valued at approximately N20 million, as well as a gold bracelet with chain worth N3.6 million.

“The Commissioner praised the officers for their honesty, dedication, and service, noting that their actions reflect the core values of the Nigeria Police Force and further strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.

“CP Naziru Abdulmajid reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging residents to continue supporting and cooperating with the police for enhanced security across the state.”