The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has initiated a thorough investigation into reports that an airstrike targeting bandits in Katsina State accidentally killed seven civilians, including six members of the same family.
The incident occurred on Saturday in Yauni community, Zakka ward, Safana Local Government Area, during a military operation aimed at repelling an attack by bandits.
NAF Responds to Civilian Casualty Allegations
In a statement on Monday, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, described the reports of civilian casualties as “deeply troubling” but emphasized that the allegations were yet to be verified.
“The reports alleging civilian casualties following the airstrikes are deeply troubling. The NAF takes these concerns seriously and remains fully committed to uncovering the truth. While these claims are distressing, they remain allegations until a comprehensive investigation is concluded,” Akinboyewa stated.
He added that Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff, had promptly ordered a detailed probe into the incident to establish the facts and take appropriate action if necessary.
Airstrike Targeted Bandits After Attack on Security Forces
Defending the air operation, Akinboyewa explained that the strike was carried out in response to intelligence about an attack on Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel and members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps by armed bandits.
The attack had already resulted in the death of two PMF officers and four vigilantes before the military intervened.
“The airstrike resulted in the neutralization of several bandits and helped repel the onslaught against PMF and Community Watch Corps personnel. Intelligence confirmed that the terrorists were taking refuge on nearby Yauni hill, prompting a swift air interdiction mission,” Akinboyewa said.
Public Urged to Remain Calm as Investigation Proceeds
Reiterating the Air Force’s commitment to professionalism and accountability, Akinboyewa assured the public that the NAF operates under strict rules of engagement and internationally accepted standards to minimize harm to civilians.
He urged citizens to remain calm as the investigation unfolds, promising transparency in addressing the situation.
Recurring Civilian Casualties in Military Operations
The latest Katsina airstrike mishap comes less than two months after a similar incident in Sokoto State, where 10 civilians were killed in airstrikes targeting terrorists in Gidan Bisa and Runtuwa villages, Silame Local Government Area.
As the NAF intensifies counterterrorism efforts, concerns continue to mount over collateral damage in military operations, prompting calls for stricter precision measures to prevent civilian casualties.
