Airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) targeting terrorist positions in Borno State have reportedly killed an unspecified number of civilians. A security source told PREMIUM TIMES that the strikes occurred on Sunday between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the Mararaba area of Kukawa Local Government Area. The incident happened hours after the Air Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians during operations.
The source said fishermen and commercial drivers gathered at a terminus were hit, confirming three casualties and the destruction of 10 vehicles. “The number of civilians killed by the air force is uncertain. But a high number of civilians have been killed and vehicles destroyed,” he said, adding that injured victims were taken to the General Hospital in Monguno. A NAF pilot confirmed the incident.
Sources described the airstrikes as a result of false intelligence, noting the area had no Boko Haram settlement. “The airstrikes killed the civilians in the area,” the officer said, warning that terrorists were regrouping for attacks. He urged compensation for victims and advised the Air Force to conduct proper ISR. The NAF has yet to issue an official statement on the incident.