YAOUNDE, Sept. 7 (Xinhua) -- At least six civilians were killed early Sunday when militants of terror group Boko Haram raided three communities in Cameroon's Far North region, according to security sources and locals.

The militants attacked simultaneously the localities of Onzal, Mandoussa and Modoko of the region for over three hours. Photos and videos shared by locals on social media showed properties and buildings including a hospital that were torched during the attack.

"We were asleep when suddenly we heard shooting and shouts. They (Boko Haram militants) were shooting indiscriminately. It was so frightening. Some of us succeeded to escape to the bushes and they just killed and kidnapped those who could not escape," a victim of the raid told Xinhua by phone but asked not to be named for security and safety reasons.

Security sources said that the militants abducted several villagers including children.

Boko Haram has been operating in the region since 2014. The militants usually target civilians and soldiers in raids. ■