A military airstrike targeting armed groups in the conflict-ridden northwest region of Nigeria has mistakenly killed at least 20 civilians in the Maradun and Zurmi communities in Zamfara State. The casualties were members of community security outfits.
The airstrike, the third such misfire in just over a year, was carried out by the Nigerian Air Force, which was targeting rebel groups in the area. Sulaiman Bala Idris, a spokesman for the State governor, confirmed on Sunday January 12 that members of the Civilian Joint Task Force and local vigilantes were mistakenly identified as fleeing bandits during the operation in Tungar Kara.
While the exact number of casualties has not been confirmed by officials or the Air Force, local resident Salisu Maradun reported that 20 bodies had been counted, and 10 others were receiving treatment for injuries. Despite the civilian deaths, the Zamfara State government described the airstrike as a success, claiming it had effectively targeted bandits as part of a renewed military offensive.
The Government pledged continued support to improve intelligence sharing, logistics, and community engagement. Since 2017, Nigerian airstrikes aimed at combating extremist violence have resulted in the deaths of approximately 400 civilians, according to SBM Intelligence.
The military has faced criticism for its lack of transparency in investigating such incidents. In December 2023, over 80 civilians were mistakenly killed during a religious gathering in Kaduna State. Although the military announced in May 2024 that two personnel would face Court martial, no findings have been released from the investigation.