Following devastating nocturnal raids by jihadist factions against a Chadian military base in Barka Tolorom, which claimed 25 lives—including two high-ranking officers—and injured 46 others on May 4th, the Chadian Air Force launched immediate retaliatory airstrikes. These military operations targeted islands within Lake Chad, a region under the control of Boko Haram militants, situated along the borders of Nigeria, Niger, and Chad.
According to Africa Radio, the strikes primarily focused on Shuwa Island, identified as a stronghold for jihadist activity and a vital fishing hub frequented by Nigerian fishermen. Reports from regional media indicate that “at least 40 Nigerian fishermen are missing and presumed drowned following the bombings.” Most of the victims hailed from Doron Baga, a Nigerian lakeside town that previously suffered a catastrophic attack in 2015, resulting in over 2,000 fatalities.
While Nigerian media has yet to address these claims, the Nigerian military has faced repeated accusations of accidental civilian casualties during aerial operations. The most recent incident occurred weeks prior, sparking widespread controversy.
