NAF Voids Civilian Casualties in Zamfara Airstrike, Launches Probe

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has expressed its profound concern following reports of civilian deaths attributed to an airstrike in Zamfara State. The strike, conducted on Saturday evening, was intended to target the hideouts of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji. However, the attack mistakenly struck members of the Zamfara Community Protection Guard (ZCPG), along with local vigilantes and residents, claiming at least 16 lives.
This unfortunate incident unfolded in the Tungar Kara community, located within the Gidan Goga district of the Maradun Local Government Area in Zamfara. According to reports, the airstrike, which was launched as part of a broader offensive against terrorists, inadvertently affected non-combatants. Maharazu Salisu Gado Faru, a lawmaker from the Maradun II Constituency in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, confirmed the tragic event, characterizing the strike as an unfortunate accident aimed at local vigilantes who had organized to defend their communities from the persistent threats posed by bandits.
In response to the tragic loss, the NAF issued a statement on Sunday, with spokesperson Air Vice Marshal Akinboyewa addressing the situation with clarity. In his release, titled “NAF Conducts Decisive Air Strikes in Zamfara, Investigating Vigilante Casualty Reports,” he emphasized that the force’s operations are typically conducted with careful consideration of human lives. While confirming that a thorough investigation is underway to verify the veracity of the casualty reports, Akinboyewa stressed that there is presently no substantial evidence to corroborate claims of civilian fatalities.
“The Nigerian Air Force conducted a decisive strike at Tungar Kara, situated within the Zumi Local Government Area of Zamfara, successfully dismantling several bandit strongholds,” Akinboyewa stated. “This operation also led to the liberation of some kidnapped victims. Despite these successes, the NAF is deeply troubled by the reported loss of civilian lives during the operation.”
As a guardian of national security, the NAF reiterated its unwavering commitment to safeguarding human life and ensuring the security of all citizens. The statement went on to emphasize the ongoing investigation, which aims to determine the full facts surrounding the incident. “The NAF remains dedicated to conducting its operations with the utmost care and professionalism, ensuring that the safety of civilians and their infrastructure is always prioritized,” the spokesperson assured the public.
Akinboyewa concluded by reaffirming that the mission in the Northwest is fundamentally focused on combating banditry and restoring peace to the region. The NAF remains resolute in its pursuit of justice, working in close collaboration with relevant authorities to uncover the truth and take appropriate actions in response to the situation.