A NAF airstrike in Zamfara mistakenly killed 16 vigilantes heading to assist a village under attack by bandits.
An airstrike carried out by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Kakindawa village, Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State, has tragically resulted in the death of 16 vigilantes.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening as the group was en route to Tungar Kara village to support residents following a bandit attack.
According to AVM Olusola Akinboyewa, NAF spokesman, the airstrike was part of Operation Fansan Yamma, a coordinated effort involving air and ground assaults targeting Fakai Hills.
The operation reportedly neutralized numerous bandits loyal to notorious warlord Kachallah Bello Turji.
However, Umar, a resident of Kakindawa, recounted how the airstrike mistakenly targeted the vigilantes instead of the bandits, who had already fled the area.
Eyewitness Account
“The bandits had attacked Tungar Kara village, attempting to rustle livestock and kidnap residents,” Umar explained.
“When we heard about it, our vigilante group mobilized and set out to assist. Unfortunately, just as they were about to reach the village, an aircraft appeared and dropped a bomb on them.
The bandits had already escaped into the forest.
“We counted 16 bodies after the bombardment, including my son,” he added.
The tragic event has sparked concerns about the accuracy of military operations in areas affected by banditry and the unintended consequences for local communities.
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