**Zamfara Air Strike: NAF Denies Civilian Casualties**
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has refuted claims of civilian casualties following an airstrike targeting insurgents in Tungar Kara, Maradun LGA of Zamfara state. Reports suggesting that 16 civilians, including members of the Zamfara Community Protection Guard (ZCPG) and residents of the community, were killed have been dismissed by NAF.
Allegations Refuted
Counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama had cited intelligence sources alleging that vigilantes were mistaken for bandits during the operation, resulting in casualties. However, NAF’s director of public relations and information, Olusola Akinboyewa, has categorically denied these claims. He emphasized that the air force takes utmost precautions to avoid harm to civilians and relies on credible intelligence for its operations.
NAF’s Statement
Akinboyewa stated, “The air force employs every possible measure to prevent, minimize, and mitigate harm to civilians in the conduct of operations.” He attributed the reports to propaganda by terrorists and their sympathizers aiming to discredit the military. According to him, the airstrikes were carried out based on reliable intelligence to combat bandit attacks in the region.
Commitment to Transparency
While maintaining that there have been no credible reports of civilian casualties, Akinboyewa assured the public that NAF’s operations are transparent and accountable. He pledged to keep the public informed as necessary and reiterated the military’s commitment to safeguarding civilian lives during operations.
In a world where conflicting narratives often cloud the truth, it is crucial to verify information from multiple credible sources. The complexity of conflict zones like Zamfara underscores the importance of accurate reporting to prevent misinformation and protect vulnerable communities. As we navigate through a sea of news, let’s remember the significance of responsible journalism in shaping public perceptions and upholding the truth.
