Defence Headquarters debunks reports of civilian casualties, says 70 bandits killed In Shiroro airstrike
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports alleging that civilians were killed during a recent airstrike in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, insisting that the operation targeted armed bandits and terrorist hideouts.
According to the military, the aerial bombardment was carried out after credible intelligence revealed that heavily armed bandits had assembled in Lukupe Village and nearby communities within Shiroro LGA.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the military said post-strike assessments confirmed that several terrorists were neutralised during the operation.
The DHQ disclosed that the most significant casualties were recorded in Kusasu, where about 70 bandits were reportedly killed during the air raid.
The statement added that surviving members of the criminal group were later seen evacuating the bodies of their dead associates for burial, while more than 200 armed fighters riding motorcycles reportedly fled towards Zango following the bombardment.
The military further maintained that claims of civilian casualties were false and misleading, noting that residents of nearby communities had relocated to Sarkin Pawa before the operation commenced.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the movement of villagers out of the affected areas before the strike contradicts allegations that innocent civilians were present at the targeted locations.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterated its commitment to safeguarding civilians and conducting military operations in line with established rules of engagement as well as international laws governing armed conflict.
