Metro
Zamfara lauds NAF airstrike on bandits, mourns civilian casualties

The Zamfara State Government has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its recent airstrike targeting bandits in troubled areas of the state, while expressing deep sorrow over the unintended civilian casualties recorded during the operation.
In a statement released on Sunday, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the spokesperson for Governor Dauda Lawal, acknowledged the success of the military intervention in Zurmi and Maradun local government areas. The airstrike, conducted under the Operation Hadarin Daji campaign, struck bandits fleeing from Gidan Makera in Boko District, Zurmi LGA.
While applauding the operation, the government extended condolences to the families of those affected by the incident at Tungar Kara, Zurmi LGA, where civilian casualties occurred. The victims, identified as members of the local vigilante group (Civilian Joint Task Force), were mistakenly targeted during the airstrike.
The statement read: “We have received multiple positive reports of precision strikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansar Yamma over the weekend in troubled Maradun and Zurmi local government areas.
“This intervention by the military has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the bandits and has shown the commitment of the Nigeria Air Force to carrying out its constitutional mandate of protecting civilians and safeguarding the lives and property of the people.”
However, it added, “Regrettably, some members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and local vigilantes were also affected during the operation in Tungar Kara, resulting in the loss of lives. We pray to Almighty Allah to grant them Jannah.”
Read also: FA Cup: Man Utd beat Arsenal on penalties, Spurs advance with extra-time win
The Zamfara State Government reiterated its unwavering support for security agencies, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to sustain gains in the fight against banditry.
“As a responsible government, we assure all the people of the State that the Government of Zamfara State remains steadfast in its resolve to sustain the gains made in the fight against banditry and related criminalities,” the statement said.
“In light of these achievements, the state government reaffirms its commitment to providing all necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to sustain their operations and bring lasting peace to the state.
“We will continue to offer support to enhance intelligence sharing, provide logistics, and strengthen community engagement, all in the spirit of a comprehensive approach to security and achieving the ultimate goal of restoring normalcy across all parts of the state.”
The government also assured bereaved families of its support, noting that the sacrifices of the deceased vigilantes would not be forgotten.
“The government will provide necessary support and assistance to the bereaved families,” it stated.
Calling for vigilance and cooperation, the statement concluded: “Finally, the government calls on people to be vigilant, report all suspicious activities, and cooperate fully with security personnel. Through collective effort and unity of purpose, the fight against banditry can be won, bringing enduring peace and stability to Zamfara State.”
This latest development highlights the complex challenges faced in the fight against banditry in Zamfara, as well as the government’s efforts to balance military action with protecting civilian lives.
Join the conversation
Opinions
Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism
Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.
As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.
If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.
Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.