- The Nigerian Air Force announced an investigation into airstrikes in Sokoto that mistakenly killed 10 civilians and injured several others
- Locals reported that airstrikes intended for terrorists hit Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities, causing significant destruction and civilian casualties
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to conduct a detailed investigation into airstrikes on two villages in Sokoto State that reportedly claimed the lives of 10 civilians and injured several others.
The incident occurred early Wednesday in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area.
Residents reported that the strikes, intended to target Lakurawa terrorists, inadvertently hit civilians, destroyed homes, and killed livestock.
Locals claim the fighter jet aimed at terrorists operating in the area but dropped explosives on innocent residents instead.
Responding to the incident, Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, joint media coordinator for the military operation, stated that the airstrikes were aimed at locations linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group.
He emphasized that military operations are guided by “thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions” to minimize civilian casualties.
“All military operations are based on rigorous intelligence gathering and surveillance to ensure precision and protect civilian lives,” Abdullahi explained.
NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, also defended the airstrikes, stating they were conducted based on credible intelligence from multiple sources and confirmatory aerial surveillance. However, he assured that reports of civilian casualties would be thoroughly examined.
“We rely on credible intelligence and aerial surveillance for such operations. That said, we will thoroughly investigate claims of civilian casualties and provide updates as needed,” Akinboyewa said.
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