Air Chief Orders Probe Into Alleged Civilian Casualties In Katsina Airstrike
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has ordered an investigation into allegations of civilian casualties following an airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) at Yauni Hill, Zakka Ward in Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State.
NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, on Monday confirmed that multiple bandits were neutralized in the operation. He noted, however, that reports alleging civilian casualties were being taken seriously and would be thoroughly investigated.
Some news media had reported that seven innocent civilians were said to have been killed by a military airstrike that hit Yauni community, Zakka ward of Safana Local Government Area of the state.
Akinboyewa said the airstrike, conducted on February 15, 2025, was part of Operation Fasan Yanma, aimed at neutralizing bandits responsible for an attack on a Police Mobile Force (PMF) location, which had resulted in the killing of two PMF personnel and four vigilantes, prompting NAF air assets to engage the suspected hideout of the assailants at Yauni Hill.
“While these claims are distressing, they remain allegations until a comprehensive investigation is concluded. The NAF operates under strict rules of engagement and internationally accepted standards to minimize collateral damage. The well-being of Nigerian citizens remains our top priority,” the statement read.
