The Chadian Air Force swiftly responded to a series of devastating nocturnal attacks by jihadist groups against the military base in Barka Tolorom, which resulted in 25 fatalities—including two generals—and left 46 others injured on May 4. According to Africa Radio, Chadian fighter jets targeted islands in Lake Chad controlled by Boko Haram, situated near the borders of Nigeria, Niger, and Chad.

The pan-African news outlet highlighted that the strikes likely focused on Shuwa Island, identified as a major stronghold for the militants and a bustling fishing hub frequented by Nigerian fishermen.

Reports indicate that at least 40 Nigerian fishermen are missing and presumed drowned following the bombings, according to a representative from the Lake Chad Fishermen’s Union. Most of the victims hailed from Doron Baga, a Nigerian lakeside town previously ravaged by a massacre in 2015 that claimed over 2,000 lives.

Interestingly, Nigerian media has yet to address these claims, despite frequent accusations against its own military for inadvertently bombing civilian areas. A recent incident occurred weeks ago when Nigerian airstrikes reportedly resulted in civilian casualties.