By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has responded to concerns about alleged civilian casualties from a recent airstrike in Giwa Local Government Area (LGA), Kaduna State. The airstrike occurred on September 30, based on “credible intelligence from numerous reliable sources,” according to Group Captain Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director of Public Relations for the NAF.
Officials identified the targeted location as a “notorious terrorist enclave” for over two years. This successful airstrike aims to reduce banditry, kidnapping, and attacks on innocent civilians in Kaduna State and its surrounding areas.
Ali stated, “The successful airstrike would no doubt go a long way in minimizing banditry, kidnapping, and similar attacks on innocent civilians.”
Despite the operational success, the NAF is taking the allegations of civilian casualties seriously. “We are not taking these allegations lightly,” Ali affirmed, emphasizing the Air Force’s commitment to achieving operational objectives without causing collateral damage.
“A thorough investigation is currently ongoing to ascertain the facts with a view to keeping the populace informed in due course,” he added.
The NAF’s swift response reflects its ongoing efforts to maintain public trust while addressing the complex challenges of counter-terrorism operations in the region. As investigations continue, the Air Force assures the public of its dedication to transparency and accountability in its operations.