The Nigerian Air Force is investigating reports of civilian casualties following an air strike in Zamfara State over the weekend. The operation, which targeted armed criminal gangs in the northwest, has raised concerns about the rising number of innocent people caught in the crossfire during military actions against bandits.
Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa confirmed that the air strike on Saturday had been aimed at the bandits, who are notorious for killing villagers and kidnapping victims across the region. The air force also reported the rescue of some of those who had been abducted. However, local sources stated that at least 15 civilians, including security guards, were killed in the strike.
This incident follows a troubling pattern. In December, another air strike in Sokoto State mistakenly killed at least 10 civilians. Akinboyewa stated that the Nigerian Air Force is working to minimize harm to civilians and civilian infrastructure during its operations.
General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, assured the public that the military does not intentionally target civilians and pledged that the Zamfara air strike will be fully investigated.
