Suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have reportedly killed at least 29 firewood sellers and fishermen in communities under Mafa Local Government Area, following a deadly attack on Monday afternoon.
The insurgents were said to have stormed Anadawa and nearby villages at about 3:30 p.m., targeting residents engaged in fishing, firewood collection, and charcoal business activities.
Security sources involved in the evacuation of victims disclosed that the attackers unleashed violence on the communities, leaving dozens dead and several others missing.
“One of the victims who managed to escape brought the news to the community after he was rushed to a medical facility with knife injuries,” a security source revealed.
According to reports obtained by The News Chronicle on Wednesday night, many victims were allegedly hacked to death with cutlasses, while others attempting to flee were shot by the attackers.
Another source said the bodies of those killed were later evacuated by soldiers, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and relatives before burial on Tuesday.
The attack also reportedly led to the abduction of several residents, heightening fears among communities in the Lake Chad region that have continued to suffer repeated insurgent attacks.
Security authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident, while concerns remain over the fate of those still unaccounted for.
