The news that 20 fishermen were killed in an attack by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai near Kwatan Daban Masara on the outskirts of Lake Chad has been denied by Defence Headquarters.

Brig.-Gen. Bernard Onyeuko, the Acting Director, Defence Media Operations, announced this in an Abuja statement on Thursday.

Onyeuko stated that the air Component carried out airstrikes against the target on Sept. 26 based on credible intelligence on terrorist activity in a confirmed ISWAP camp in the area.

According to him, the air interdiction was carried out after thorough Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance operations indicated ISWAP elements’ activities in the area.

Between August 19 and September 23, he claims, the intelligence gathered was processed and carefully evaluated.

“Persons wearing combat vests and uniforms identified as ISWAP-styled uniforms were seen within the camp.

“Furthermore, neither women nor children were noticed in or around the camp, just as no fishing activities were seen.

“Instead, canoes loaded with unidentified items were seen parked but not engaged in any fishing activity, an indication that they were to be ferried to another location.

“Having carefully ascertained that nearby civilian settlements were not in the line of fire and a precision strike would disrupt ISWAP logistics movement and neutralize them; a decision was made to conduct a strike on the ISWAP camp,” he claimed.

Onyeuko claimed that no casualty statistics could be determined, but that the strike was successful in crippling ISWAP logistics and foot soldiers.

He stated that the place is a well-known ISWAP enclave and that fishing activities were previously prohibited in the area.

He went on to say that the general area was renowned as a hub for ISWAP logistical movement, particularly from the Kirta and Wulgo sites.

“Therefore, the Nigerian Military wishes to state categorically that necessary steps were taken to ensure that the presence of the terrorists was ascertained and the strike was precise and professionally executed.

“The Military High Command will continue to ensure that its troops safeguard lives and properties of innocent citizens.

“It appreciates the general public for their continuous support and further encourages all to avail the military with credible and timely information that will facilitate our proactive engagements in the fight against terrorism,” he added.