ISWAP Terrorists Demand N30m Ramsom For Abducted 7 Borno Fishermen

Suspected Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists have reportedly demanded N30million ransom for seven fishermen abducted in Doron Baga, an agrarian and fishing community of Kukawa local government area of Borno State.

Doro Baga have been a major source of Borno’s popular smoked fish, which previously drew dealers from across the country and beyond due to its taste and affordability, but the lingering insurgency had destroyed the business that was once generating huge revenue to the State.

It could be recalled that at a particular period, the Nigerian military banned fishing activities in the area and further banned transportation of the smoked fish to Maiduguri from Baga following the use and sale of the smoked fish by the terrorists to revive their strangulated economic base.

The victims were reportedly abducted in the morning hours of Thursday during an attack on Kwatan Dadin Kowa fish market.

According to sources, the terrorists had earlier gathered in a nearby village before advancing to the market in boats armed with sophisticated weapons.

A source who preferred anonymity said the insurgents spent the night at the market, located at about one kilometre from Doron Baga and a military base, and launched their attack shortly after traders arrived in the morning.

“They abducted seven fishermen and market workers and later moved freely towards Shawureram, which is about 30 kilometres away,” the source said.

The attackers have reportedly contacted members of the market community, demanding a ransom of N30 million for the release of the kidnap victims.

“We do not have the money to pay for the release of our loved ones. The terrorists warned that there will be consequences if the ransom was not paid on time,” the source said.

The Nigerian military has not yet responded or issued a statement regarding the abduction of the farmers.