At least seven fishermen and market workers have been abducted by suspected Boko Haram insurgents following an early morning attack on Kwatan Dadin Kowa fish market in Doron Baga, under Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The incident occurred on Thursday at about 10:14 a.m., when armed insurgents reportedly arrived at the market in boats and opened an operation shortly after traders had begun business for the day.
Sources said the attackers had earlier assembled in a nearby village before advancing to the market with sophisticated weapons.
A resident, who requested anonymity, told reporters that the assailants spent the night around the market area located roughly one kilometre from Doron Baga and a military base before launching the attack.
“They abducted seven fishermen and market workers and later moved freely towards Shawureram, about 30 kilometres away,” the source said.
Members of the market community disclosed that the abductors have contacted them, demanding a ransom of N30 million for the release of the victims.
“We do not have the money to pay for the release of our loved ones. The terrorists warned there would be consequences if the ransom is not paid,” a community member said.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the abduction.
