At least twenty-three farmers and fishermen were killed and 18 others kidnapped during a deadly attack by Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Malam Karanti village, located just five kilometers from Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to local sources, the attack occurred early Thursday morning, when the terrorists stormed the village and rounded up people who had gone out for farming and fishing. The victims were reportedly gathered together before being executed. Most of those killed were bean farmers who had returned to their fields despite the high-security risks in the area.
“The terrorists spared an elderly man, who later alerted the community. The terrorists assembled people in Malam Karanti and killed them. Most of the victims were bean farmers,” a local source told journalists.
After the massacre, community members tried to organize a recovery operation with the help of security agents. However, another round of gunfire from the ISWAP insurgents forced them to retreat.
“We tried to organise a rescue mission with security agencies to recover the victims’ bodies, but the terrorists returned and prevented us. Many families are waiting for their loved ones,” said another resident.
Malam Karanti has long been recognized as a volatile area, largely under the influence of ISWAP. Despite the dangers, many locals continue to farm and fish there in a bid to survive and feed their families.
The Nigerian military has responded to the recent tragedy. Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, noted that efforts were ongoing to deal with the terrorists and reclaim affected areas.
He stated that the armed forces were working closely with countries such as Russia and France to obtain modern weapons that would help end the conflict.
General Musa also noted that plans to recharge Lake Chad were being considered, as the waterway would allow better access for troops to flush out terrorists who have taken advantage of the lake’s resources to sustain their activities.
