December 02, (THEWILL) – Suspected terrorists of the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP), have reportedly kidnapped atleast 15 people, including some officials of international Non-Governmental Organisations, in Borno State.
THEWILL had reported how ISWAP terrorists on Tuesday abducted five Borno state government officials, who were on a construction work in the State
In the recent incident, the terrorists, THEWILL gathered, mounted a checkpoint on the Damboa-Chibok Road, and abducted motorists at about 2 pm on Wednesday.
Reliable sources said the victims include some officials working with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), who were on their way to attend a workshop in Yola, the Adamawa State capital.
“It is unfortunate that the insurgents continue their nefarious activities on the fringe of Sambisa forests, we have received reports that ISWAP kidnapped at least 15 persons (passengers) near Gumsuri village while allowing two others to go.
“They are desperate to recruit more people into their criminal activities. They deceived people because they dressed in military attire. It is sad and shocking”, a security source said.
However, a local source told newsmen that , “The about 45-kilometre Damboa-Chibok Road, which is under construction by the Borno State Government, is no longer safe.
“Just yesterday(Wednesday), we witnessed twin abduction of motorists and passengers, who were forcefully taken to an unknown destination.
“The road runs through the Sambisa Forests and it appears the insurgents are out to kidnap innocent people to initiate them into their evil atrocities.
“The abduction of the 15 persons happened near Gumsuri village located along the Chibok-Damboa Road.”
While the State Police Command has not issued any statement on the development, a reliable stakeholder in Gumsuri village, who confirmed the incident, said, the abandoned vehicles of the victims were still at the scene as at Thursday morning.
