The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has initiated a thorough investigation into airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of seven civilians, including six members of the same family, in Katsina.
The Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, made it known in a statement this Monday.
Akinboyewa reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to uncovering the truth, saying that while the reports were troubling, they remain allegations until a full investigation is completed.
He assured the public that the NAF operates under strict rules of engagement and internationally accepted standards, emphasising the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigeria’s citizens.
Akinboyewa further urged the public to remain calm as the investigation progresses, assuring that appropriate action would be taken based on the findings.
Regarding the operation, Akinboyewa confirmed that it was launched in response to an earlier attack on Police Mobile Force and Katsina State Community Watch Corps personnel, during which two PMF officers and four vigilantes were killed by bandits.
The airstrikes, which were aimed at bandits in the Yauni community, Safana Local Government Area, occurred on Saturday, and the civilian casualties have raised serious concerns.
The airstrikes successfully neutralised several bandits and helped repel further attacks against security personnel. The bandits had been confirmed to be taking refuge on Yauni Hill, where they were engaged by NAF air assets.