In a devastating assault, at least 23 farmers and fishermen lost their lives to an attack by the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in the village of Malam Karanti, located near Baga in the Kukawa Local Government Area of northern Borno State.
Reports indicate that the attack took place on Thursday morning in Malam Karanti, a village a mere five kilometres from Baga. Eyewitnesses revealed that the terrorists rounded up local farmers and fishermen, executing 23 bean farmers in cold blood.
An elderly man, who was spared during the incident, later informed the community about the attack. “The terrorists gathered individuals in Malam Karanti and executed them. Most of the victims were bean farmers,” a source disclosed.
Residents attempting to recover the bodies were compelled to withdraw as ISWAP launched another offensive.
“We endeavoured to coordinate a rescue mission with security forces to retrieve the victims’ bodies, but the terrorists returned and thwarted our efforts. Numerous families are anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones,” another source lamented.
Malam Karanti has become a stronghold for ISWAP, where civilians continue to engage in farming and fishing despite the imminent dangers.
In response to the crisis, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, during a visit on Thursday, reassured the Borno State and North-East residents that the military is diligently working to eradicate the terrorists and dismantle their strongholds.
He emphasised that the military is collaborating with allied nations, including Russia and France, to procure advanced weaponry aimed at swiftly concluding the conflict.
General Musa noted that revitalising Lake Chad would also facilitate troop movements in the region to eliminate ISWAP, who exploit the economic resources of the Chad Basin, such as fishing and farming, to bolster their logistical operations.
On Friday, General Musa reaffirmed the military’s commitment to combating the recent increase in insecurity.
He conveyed this assurance to State House correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Tinubu and defence leaders at the Aso Rock Villa, revealing that additional equipment has been acquired to strengthen the fight against the escalating terrorist threats, particularly in the northern regions.
“Mr President has issued directives on how to intensify our efforts and collaborate with neighbouring countries, as their porous borders exacerbate our challenges,” he stated.
“All our operational theatres have been enhanced, with new equipment procured, and Mr President has granted approval for air assets and other security measures. We recognise that both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches are vital.”
He also mentioned ongoing discussions with governors to ensure that the benefits of democracy reach communities, aiming to mitigate the issue of insecurity collaboratively.
