Boko Haram terrorists on Saturday attacked Damasak area of Borno State, killing two civilians and shooting a humanitarian helicopter belonging to the United Nations mission, which was badly damaged.
Edward Kallon, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, on Saturday said both fatalities and several others injured in the attack were on the ground.
“A UN Humanitarian Air Service helicopter was hit by bullets during the attack. No aid workers were on board at the time and crew members are all safe,” Kallon said in a statement.
A UN communication said the aircraft was shot as it approached Damasak and the pilots managed to fly back to Maiduguri, AFP reports.
The UN chief said, “I am gravely concerned by reports of another violent attack by non-state armed groups in Damasak in which at least two civilians lost their lives, including a five-year old child. Several others were injured, and a humanitarian helicopter was hit, sustaining serious damage.
“I welcome the government’s commitment to investigate the attack and swiftly bring to justice the perpetrators. A UN Humanitarian Air Service helicopter was hit by bullets during the attack. No aid workers were on board at the time and crew members are all safe.
“I call on all parties to allow and facilitate safe and unimpeded access for humanitarians to deliver life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable people in the north-east. Insecurity and violent attacks continue to hamper the ability of people to access basic services or livelihoods and recover from the protracted crisis in North-East Nigeria. I call on the Nigerian authorities to reinforce the safety and security of all humanitarian workers.”
