Tragedy struck today in the Tungar Kara community in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State when the Nigerian Air Force airstrikes mistakenly hit operatives of the Zamfara State Community Protection Guard, ZSCPG, vigilantes, and some residents who were on a raid against bandits in the area.
It was gathered that the victims who met their untimely death were innocent civilians that had mobilised to forestall bandits attack on thier communities.
However the Nigerian Air Force mistakenly struck the scene thinking they were bandits on rampage.
According to report, not fever than 20 people have been confirmed dead and injuries sustained.
It was also learnt that local vigilantes and residents, who had mobilized to defend their community, were caught in the strike.
Garba Umar, a local resident narrated the incident to the press. ” As we were heading to Tungar Kara around 3:30 pm, an aircraft suddenly appeared in the area and dropped a bomb on the vigilantes. The bandits had already escaped into the forest,”
“We mobilised to protect our neighbours, but tragically, the aircraft targeted the vigilantes instead of the fleeing bandits. It’s heartbreaking,” Umar disclosed.
He said that the bombing killed 16 individuals, including his own kid
Recall, history of airstrikes in Nigeria, particularly those that have inadvertently targeted civilians, is a tragic reflection of the complexities and challenges faced in the fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry.
In recent times, Nigeria has been grappling with the rise of militant groups, most notably Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and bandits.
The Nigerian military, in its efforts to combat these groups, has conducted numerous airstrikes aimed at neutralizing threats. However, some of these operations have often resulted in significant civilian casualties, raising serious ethical concerns.
International condemnation of these airstrikes has been widespread.
Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have consistently called for accountability and transparency from the Nigerian government.
The implications of these airstrikes extend beyond immediate civilian harm. They can exacerbate humanitarian crises, displace populations, and hinder access to vital aid in regions already burdened by poverty and insecurity.