The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports alleging that civilians were killed during a recent airstrike in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, insisting that the military operation targeted armed bandits and terrorist hideouts.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the military said the air interdiction followed credible intelligence about the movement and gathering of heavily armed bandits in Lukupe Village and nearby locations within Shiroro LGA.
According to the statement, post-strike intelligence assessments confirmed that several terrorists were neutralised during the operation, especially in Kusasu, where about 70 bandits were reportedly killed.
The military added that surviving fighters were later seen evacuating the bodies of their dead colleagues for burial.
The Defence Headquarters further disclosed that more than 200 armed bandits riding on motorcycles fled towards Zango after the bombardment.
Reacting to claims that civilians were affected, the military maintained that residents of surrounding communities had relocated to Sarkin Pawa before the strikes commenced, stressing that there were no civilian gatherings at the targeted locations during the operation.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding innocent citizens while carrying out military operations in accordance with established rules of engagement and international laws guiding armed conflict.