Locals say the vigilantes were mistaken for bandits during the operation, which left more than 50 villagers abducted
Members of a local vigilante group in Zamfara State have accused the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) of mistakenly bombing them during an operation to repel terrorists in Garin Mani, Maru Local Government Area. The airstrike occurred on Saturday after bandits attacked the village, killing several and abducting over 50 residents, mostly farmers.
“We were pursuing the bandits when we saw the fighter jet approaching. It flew very low and started bombing us,” one vigilante told BBC Hausa.
While the NAF confirmed the deaths of two vigilantes and injuries to two others, the group claims the number was higher.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said, “The operationbwas aimed at halting a planned large-scale attack on vulnerable communities.” He added that over 20 terrorists were neutralised and 30 motorcycles destroyed.
Ejodame stated that investigations are underway and assured, “The NAF deeply regrets the loss of these brave vigilantes.”
Locals urged authorities to send reinforcements as the bandits had threatened to return.