Many Civilians Feared Dead in Nigerian Air Force Airstrikes Targeting Terrorists

Nigerian Air Force fighter jets on Thursday mistakenly bombed two communities in Sokoto State, resulting in civilian casualties, Anadolu Agencies reported.

Local sources report at least 10 fatalities and numerous injuries in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa, located in the Silame local government area near Surame Forest, a known hideout for armed groups.

Muhammed Alim, a resident, confirmed the tragic toll, while Abubakar Daftarana, the local government chairman, stated that assessments of casualties and damage are ongoing. Olusola Akinboyewa, spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, acknowledged the incident and assured that an investigation would follow to determine the full extent of the harm caused.

The airstrikes were conducted based on credible intelligence and aerial surveillance, but Akinboyewa emphasized that reports of civilian harm would be thoroughly examined. The incident has heightened concerns over the safety of civilians amid ongoing military operations against banditry in the region.