The Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma has refuted claims that its airstrikes in Sokoto State mistakenly targeted and killed civilians, stating that the strikes only eliminated associates of the Lakurawa terrorist group.
Reports had circulated on Wednesday alleging that military fighter jets bombed two communities in Silame Local Government Area, killing at least ten civilians. The Press Secretary to the Sokoto State Governor, Abubakar Bawa, confirmed the alleged casualties, sparking widespread concerns.
In a statement released by Lt. Col Abdullahi Abubakar, spokesperson for the Joint Task Force, the military clarified that the airstrikes in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities were carefully planned and executed based on credible intelligence. He emphasized that the targets struck were confirmed associates of the Lakurawa terrorist organization.
“Importantly, the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa have been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the military action taken,” Lt. Col Abubakar stated.
The spokesman also highlighted the rigorous intelligence and reconnaissance processes that precede such operations, stressing that these measures are designed to ensure precision and minimize risks to civilian lives. “This rigorous process is particularly important when targeting groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organization, as it aims to ensure precision and protect civilian lives,” he added.
Lt. Col Abubakar urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports that could lead to misinformation and unnecessary panic. He reiterated the military’s commitment to protecting civilians while carrying out operations to neutralize terrorist threats in the region.
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