Maiduguri — At least five people were killed in the early hours of yesterday in Maiduguri by suspected attackers even as bomb blasts and sporadic gunshots were heard in many parts of the metropolis.

Many residents described the development as 'increased violence' in the last two weeks.

Among those killed include an elderly man who was killed together with two of his children at Old Maiduguri.

Two other persons were also reportedly killed at Gwange ward, a notorious ward that has recorded many clashes between suspected members of the Boko Haram and operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF).

Residents of many parts of Maiduguri had sleepless night yesterday as fierce gun battle between security forces and insurgents raged unabated.

"The trouble started around 12am (Saturday) with a devastating sound of bomb blast around Kaleri. Sounds of gunshots continued till around 4am," a person who craved anonimity and a resident of Gwange said.

Areas affected by the imbroglio included the Old Maiduguri, Gamboru ward, Customs area, Gwange and some parts of GRA.