December 26, (THEWILL) – A tragic incident has unfolded in Sokoto State, where airstrikes carried out by the Nigerian Air Force under Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) reportedly killed an unspecified number of villagers in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities of Silame Local Government Area.
The strikes were intended to hit Lakurawa terrorists who are said to operate from the Surame Forest, a known hideout for criminal elements, including bandits and terrorists.
However, the bombs reportedly landed on civilian settlements, sparking widespread concerns.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Silame Local Government, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad Daftarana, expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
He described the affected residents as innocent and peace-loving people.
“The villagers were sitting peacefully when the bombs started dropping on the communities. They were innocent and peace-loving people who had no criminal record. It is still too early to confirm the number of casualties, as we are still assessing the situation,” Daftarana stated.
In response, the Joint Media Coordinator of OPHD, Abubakar Abdullahi, defended the operation, maintaining that it was based on credible intelligence targeting the Lakurawa terrorist group.
“These reports have raised concerns; however, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions,” Abdullahi said in a statement.
“This rigorous process aims to ensure precision and protect civilian lives.
“There is a significant risk that terrorist groups may attempt to undermine military successes through media disinformation. Therefore, caution must be exercised when addressing unverified claims, especially in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
“Importantly, the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa have been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the military action taken,” Abdullahi added.
NAF Spokesperson, Olusola Akinboyewa, also confirmed that the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence and aerial surveillance. However, he acknowledged the concerns over potential civilian casualties and assured the public that the incident would be thoroughly investigated.
“Our actions are always guided by intelligence from multiple sources and confirmatory aerial surveillance. Nonetheless, reports of possible harm to civilians will be meticulously reviewed,” Akinboyewa said.
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