INVESTIGATION COMMENCES ON THE ALLEGED BOMBING OF CIVILIAN SETTLEMENTS IN YOBE STATE

On Thursday The Nigerian Airforce said that it has commenced investigation into the alleged bombing of civilian settlements in Yobe State by fighter aircraft while trailing suspected Boko Haram terrorists.

A statement by Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, Director of NAF Public Relations, said, “Following intelligence on Boko Haram/ISWAP movements along the Kamadougou Yobe River line, an aircraft from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai was detailed to respond to the suspected terrorists activities in the area along the Nigeria/Niger border at about 0600hrs on 15 September 2021.

“The aircraft while operating South of Kanama observed suspicious movement consistent with  Boko Haram terrorists behaviour whenever a Jet aircraft is overhead.

“Accordingly, the pilot fired some probing shots. It is important to state that the area  is well known for continuous Boko Haram /ISWAP activities.

” Unfortunately reports reaching Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters alleged that some civilians were erroneously killed while others were injured.

“Initial release denying the involvement of NAF aircraft was based on the first report available to the Air Component which was subsequently forwarded to NAF headquarters that civilians were bombed as the aircraft detailed for the mission was not carrying  bombs.

“Therefore a Board of Inquiry  has been set up to thoroughly investigate  the circumstances of the incident.”