ISWAP issues quit notice to fishermen in Borno community ‘for leaking information to troops’

Fighters of the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) have reportedly issued a quit notice to some farmers and fishermen living in the Kukawa LGA of Borno.

The terrorists were said to have asked the residents to vacate the community for allegedly revealing their movements to security agencies.

Recently, ISWAP fighters attacked and killed about 15 fishermen in Tumbum Rogo, in the Kukawa area of the state.

In January, the terrorists cut off the hands of two fishermen over an allegation of theft in the Marte area of Borno.

A security source told TheCable that many communities in Kukawa have been taken over by members of the ISWAP.

“Please note that IDPs from Kukawa are yet to be resettled back to their ancestral home,” the source said.

“Apart from the troops’ locations in Kukawa, all other locations are occupied by ISWAP terrorists.

“Recently, ISWAP attacked and killed 15 fishermen in Tumbum Rogo in Kukawa, accusing them of exposing their movement.

“Please note that the residents that were given quit notice are fishermen and farmers living with Boko Haram terrorists.”

In a statement on Friday, Abubakar Abdullahi, chief military public information officer in Lake Chad, said the ISWAP threat is a “blatant act of intimidation”.

Abdullahi said the quit notice shows the terrorists are frustrated, adding that the troops are actively tracking down Boko Haram insurgents in Lake Chad and surrounding communities.

“As Operation Lake Sanity 2 progresses, the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) is addressing recent propaganda spread by ISWAP terrorists urging Kukawa and neighbouring communities to flee or face attack,” the statement reads.

“Unfortunately, some media outlets have inadvertently amplified this message, overlooking its implications.

“This reprehensible propaganda is a blatant act of intimidation, a desperate move by a group on the verge of defeat.

“As multinational troops intensify operations, such propaganda is likely to increase, making it crucial for communities to remain steadfast, vigilant, and confident in their safety.

“The MNJTF and Nigerian Operation Hadin Kai troops are firmly committed to safeguarding Lake Chad Basin communities.

“They are actively pursuing Boko Haram terrorists, moving swiftly and decisively to neutralize any threats. Their presence and continued operations serve as a robust shield against this menace.

“The terrorists’ so-called ultimatum is a clear sign of their frustration and diminishing power. Their capability to conduct ground operations has been significantly impaired, pushing them towards using scare tactics like improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at every opportunity.

“By issuing such threats, they aim to spread fear and disrupt the lives of Lake Chad Basin residents. It is crucial not to succumb to their tactics but instead to demonstrate resolve and fortitude.

“We urge the residents of Kukawa and neighbouring communities to remain united and vigilant.”

The military spokesperson called on residents to report any suspicious activities to the troops, adding that the troops would work collectively to ensure the security of the Lake Chad region.