Boko Haram Militants Torch Fish-Laden Trucks in Borno, Drivers Plead for Security
Suspected Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters have intercepted and set ablaze three trucks loaded with fish at Mile-Forty in Magumeri Local Government Area of Borno State. The attack occurred at approximately 1:00 PM on Thursday, February 19, as the vehicles were en route to Maiduguri, according to truck drivers who spoke to Daily Trust.
Drivers Narrowly Escape as Vehicles Destroyed
A security source confirmed that all drivers managed to escape unharmed, but the three vehicles—two Peugeot J5 trucks and a school bus converted for transport—were completely burnt down. The source emphasized the narrow escape, stating, "Thank God that all the drivers escaped but the three vehicles loaded with fish were burnt down." One driver, who requested anonymity, described the harrowing experience: "We parked the vehicles and ran into the bush. Thank God we all made it alive, but I watched helplessly as the only means of my livelihood got burnt to ashes."
Escalating Insecurity on Key Routes
The driver highlighted a shift in insurgent tactics, noting that while abductions for ransom were previously common, militants now frequently intercept vehicles to loot and burn them. He urgently called on the federal government and security agencies to deploy troops along the road to safeguard lives and property. This latest incident follows a pattern of similar attacks in the region. Just days earlier, on February 10, insurgents reportedly intercepted four trailers carrying cows from Monguno to Maiduguri, stealing over 100 cows and setting the vehicles on fire.
Previous Attacks and Driver Complaints
Four days prior to that, another convoy of four trucks transporting beans from Monguno to Maiduguri was blocked and burnt at Garin Kashim in Guzamala Local Government Area. Truck drivers plying these routes have repeatedly complained about inadequate security presence, which they argue emboldens insurgents to carry out repeated attacks. One driver lamented, "It has become a daily occurrence now, and no action has been taken. From Maiduguri, one can only find a military checkpoint at Gajaganna, Gajiram, and the new one in Mairari, then Monguno."
Threat to Local Commerce and Calls for Action
The driver warned that unless the government takes the situation seriously, livestock and grain businesses that have begun to thrive in these areas could soon collapse. "We can no longer risk our lives and vehicles on that road," he stated, urging authorities to fortify the route similarly to the Gwoza axis, where strategic military placements have helped deter attacks. Another driver added, "Many truck owners have now withdrawn their vehicles from this road. These things kept happening, and no action has been taken so far." As of now, security agencies have yet to issue an official statement regarding the latest incident, leaving drivers and residents in a state of uncertainty and fear.
