The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially launched a comprehensive investigation into reports of accidental civilian casualties following a recent airstrike in the Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The airstrike, conducted on Friday as part of Operation Hadarin Daji, was aimed at dismantling the stronghold of armed bandit groups terrorizing communities in the region.
Preliminary reports emerging from the scene suggest that at least 16 civilians lost their lives during the operation. Among the victims were members of the Zamfara Community Protection Guard (ZCPG) and local vigilante groups who had been working alongside security forces to defend their communities against violent criminal gangs.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the airstrike, which targeted known hideouts of bandits loyal to the infamous terrorist leader Bello Turji, may have inadvertently struck areas occupied by civilian defence groups. This tragic development has sparked widespread concern and calls for accountability from local leaders and human rights organizations.
In an earlier statement, the Nigerian Air Force praised the operation for its success in neutralizing several high-ranking members of Turji’s network. The military also reported the rescue of numerous kidnapped victims who had been held captive by the bandits. However, the reports of unintended civilian deaths have cast a shadow over the operation’s achievements.
Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, assured the public that the Air Force is taking the matter seriously. “We are deeply concerned about the reports of civilian casualties during our recent operation in Zamfara. A thorough investigation has been initiated to determine the facts surrounding the incident. The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to adhering to the highest standards of professionalism and minimizing harm to civilians during combat operations,” Gabkwet stated.
Community leaders in Zurmi have expressed grief and frustration over the incident, urging the government to take greater precautions in future military operations. “While we appreciate the efforts of the military in tackling the menace of banditry, we cannot afford to lose innocent lives in the process. Our local security volunteers are risking their lives to protect this community, and their loss is devastating,” said a local chief who wished to remain anonymous.
Human rights organizations have also weighed in, demanding transparency and accountability. Amnesty International Nigeria called for a detailed and impartial investigation, emphasizing the need for the military to prioritize civilian protection in conflict zones.
The tragedy comes amid intensified military campaigns across Nigeria’s northern regions, where armed bandits have wreaked havoc for years, engaging in mass abductions, killings, and destruction of property. Zamfara State, in particular, has been a hotspot for violent criminal activity, prompting ongoing security operations aimed at restoring peace and stability.
As the investigation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the Nigerian Air Force will address the findings and prevent future incidents. The outcome will be critical in maintaining public trust in military operations and ensuring that the fight against terrorism does not come at the expense of innocent lives.
The Nigerian government has yet to release an official statement regarding the civilian deaths, but pressure is mounting for swift action and comprehensive reforms in the conduct of military air operations.
