Nigerian Air Force responds to tragic Airstrike incident in Katsina

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has responded to the tragic airstrike incident at Yauni Hill, Zakka Ward, in Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State, which occurred on Saturday.  

News360 reports that the strike, intended to target bandits, mistakenly resulted in the deaths of a family of six and another individual.

In a statement on Monday, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, AVM Olusola Akinboyewa, announced that the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has ordered a “thorough investigation” into the incident.

Akinboyewa also noted that the airstrike played a role in repelling an attack on Police Mobile Force (PMF) operatives and members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps.

He said the operation was launched in response to intelligence indicating a terrorist attack on a MPF location in the community, where bandits had already killed two personnel and four vigilantes.

According to him, the bandits were confirmed to be taking refuge on the nearby Yauni Hill.

“In a swift and decisive response, NAF air assets were deployed for an air interdiction mission. Upon arrival, the targets were identified and engaged,” he said.

The NAF spokesman said that reports alleging civilian casualties following the airstrikes were deeply troubling, adding that the NAF remained fully committed to uncovering the truth.

According to him, while the claims were distressing, it was important to emphasise that they remained allegations until a comprehensive investigation was concluded.

“As a professional force dedicated to the protection of Nigeria and its people, the NAF operates under strict rules of engagement and adheres to internationally accepted standards.

“The NAF Ethos guarantees that our operations are always geared towards ensuring the well-being of our nation and citizens.

“In response to these allegations therefore, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has promptly ordered thorough investigations, ” he said.

He said this was to verify the claims and ensure appropriate action was taken based on the findings.

He urged the public to remain calm as the investigations unfolded.

Akinboyewa reaffirmed NAF’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of innocent lives. (NAN)