International concern about civilian deaths in raids in Nigeria and Chad

He also expressed his concern and sadness over reports of the killing of dozens of fishermen in recent air strikes carried out by the Chadian army in northwestern Nigeria.

In a statement issued by his office, Türk stressed the importance of the authorities in both Nigeria and Chad conducting prompt, comprehensive, independent and impartial investigations into these disturbing incidents, and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for any violations, in accordance with international standards.

Türk urgently called on the military forces of the two countries to take all possible precautions to avoid harming civilians, stressing that military operations, including those targeting the Boko Haram group and the so-called “Islamic State in West Africa,” must be carried out in full accordance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

He stressed that civilians and civilian objects should not be the target of attacks under any circumstances.