Chad’s government has rejected claims that its military struck civilians during an anti-terror operation.
Local reports indicated that an airstrike killed several fishermen on Tilma Island in Nigeria’s Kukawa district.
The airstrike followed a Boko Haram attack on a Chadian military base that killed at least 40 soldiers.
Government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah stated that army operations are organized and disciplined, asserting that civilians are never targeted.
However, a Chadian general staff officer, speaking anonymously, confirmed the strikes and suggested a possible mistake.
He noted that Boko Haram fighters often disguise themselves as fishermen, complicating identification.
Babakura Kolo, a leader of an anti-terror militia in Nigeria, echoed these concerns.
He stated that the Chadian fighter jet might have mistaken fishermen for Boko Haram terrorists.
Survivor Sallau Arzika described the chaotic scene during the bombing, reporting many casualties among fishermen.
Exact numbers remain unclear, as bodies are still scattered across Tilma.
Chad’s government denounced the allegations as false and intended to sow confusion.
Boko Haram’s recent attacks have caused significant casualties, with the group responsible for widespread violence since its emergence in 2009.
