By Abimbola Ogunnaike
The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters have killed at least 15 fishermen and left many others wounded in an attack on Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
It was learnt the attack occurred on late in the night of Sunday, 26 May, 2024, when the fishermen were preparing for night fishing at the Tumbun Rogo Kangarwa Ward in Kukawa LGA on the fringes of Lake Chad.
According to a source, the ISWAP fighters stormed the area and rounded up the fishermen, arranging them before opening fire on them.
“They came and opened fire on our people, 15 people were killed, while others, who managed to escape, sustained varying degrees of injury and are currently receiving treatment at Cross Kauwa,” a source said.
Another source disclosed that ISWAP often target fishermen when their logistics are blocked by the military and then steal from them.
“We have buried 15 persons according to Islamic rite on Monday morning.
“They carted away all our smoke fish. Even many of our people are still missing, we have searched the nearby bushes we aren’t found them.
“This incident has left us (fishing community) in a state of shock. This is the third time they attacked us and we urge the authorities to take action to ensure our security and safety,” the source said.
Before the latest development, about 9 fishermen were killed in a previous attack by terrorists who searched the dead bodies for valuables.
