The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has denied allegations that its recent airstrikes targeting terrorist hideouts in Zamfara State resulted in civilian deaths. The strikes, reportedly aimed at notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his accomplices, have stirred controversy following claims that vigilantes were mistakenly killed.
Reports surfaced alleging that 16 members of the Zamfara Community Protection Guard (ZCPG) lost their lives during the operation in Tungar Kara, Maradun Local Government Area.
However, NAF spokesperson Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Edward Akinboyewa dismissed these claims, stating, “We take every precaution to prevent harm to civilians during operations. The reports may be propaganda from terrorists seeking to undermine the military’s success.”
According to Akinboyewa, NAF operations are guided by credible intelligence to ensure accuracy and civilian safety. While investigations are ongoing to verify the claims, he stressed, “No civilian casualties have been confirmed at this time.”
A statement from NAF, titled “NAF Conducts Decisive Air Strikes in Zamfara, Investigating Vigilante Casualty Reports,” revealed that the strikes successfully neutralized bandits and rescued kidnap victims. It reiterated the Air Force’s commitment to minimizing civilian harm during operations.
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal expressed condolences to families of vigilantes reportedly killed, labeling the incident a tragic misidentification. Despite this, he commended NAF for its renewed fight against banditry and emphasized the need for greater caution to protect innocent lives.
