An airstrike carried out by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) against suspected Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements in Borno State has reportedly led to civilian casualties.
A security source told Premium Times that the airstrikes were conducted between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Tuesday in the Mararaba area of Kukawa Local Government Area.
The incident reportedly occurred just hours after the Air Force reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians during ongoing military operations, which are supported by the United States.
According to the source, the strikes hit fishermen and commercial drivers who had gathered at a terminus linking the road to Daban Masara in Kukawa LGA and Badeiri in Marte Local Government Area. The drivers were said to be waiting to transport fishermen and their fish products to various destinations.
While confirming at least three deaths and the destruction of about 10 vehicles, the source noted that the actual number of civilian casualties remains unclear.
“The number of civilians killed is uncertain, but a high number of civilians have been killed and vehicles destroyed,” the source said, adding that several injured persons were taken to the General Hospital in Monguno for treatment.
A NAF officer, identified as a pilot, also confirmed the incident to Premium Times, stating that it was discussed during a briefing held on Tuesday in a North-western state.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Air Force had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
Also confirming the development, security analyst Brant Philip wrote that reports indicated the affected vehicles belonged to fishermen rather than ISWAP fighters, resulting in significant civilian casualties.
Philip noted that more than 10,000 fishermen operate in ISWAP-controlled areas, often paying levies to the group in exchange for protection from bandits and rival Boko Haram factions.
“It is not unusual for civilians to live and work in these areas. The NAF should release a statement soon to clarify the incident,” he added.