Military Air Strike in Zamfara State, North West Nigeria, Kills at Least 16 Civilians
At least 16 civilians in Zamfara State, northwest Nigeria, lost their lives in a military air strike believed to have mistaken them for criminal gangs.
Local sources reported that the victims included vigilante members and civilians protecting their communities from armed groups notorious for kidnappings and violent attacks.
The airstrikes targeted militant gangs in Zurmi and Maradun areas, with Governor Dauda Lawal extending his condolences to the affected communities.
While the military confirmed the strikes, it emphasized their success in neutralizing several bandits and rescuing kidnap victims. However, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) expressed deep concern over reports of civilian casualties and announced a thorough investigation to uncover the truth.
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Residents described the incident as devastating, recounting that the victims were returning home after confronting bandits when the strike occurred. Sa’idu Ibrahim, a local, stated that 16 bodies were recovered, and numerous injured individuals were rushed to hospitals for treatment.
Amnesty International Nigeria reported a death toll of 20 and demanded an impartial investigation into the attack on Tunga Kara village. The group condemned the use of air raids as an enforcement tactic, calling it reckless and a violation of human rights.
Nigeria has faced ongoing struggles with criminal gangs, known as bandits, who frequently raid villages, abduct residents, and destroy homes. Accidental air strikes have become a troubling pattern, with similar incidents claiming civilian lives in Sokoto, Kaduna, and other regions in recent years.
The NAF assured the public that findings from the investigation would be communicated promptly to maintain transparency and accountability.
Military Air Strike in Zamfara State, North West Nigeria, Kills at Least 16 Civilians
