The Nigerian Air Force, a key component of Operation Fasan Yamma, has acknowledged that an air operation carried out under the mission impacted the Tungar Kara community in Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State.
This was disclosed during an on-the-spot assessment by a Fact-Finding Team led by NAF’s Spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet.
Speaking at the scene, Gabkwet stated that the team observed evidence of bullet impacts on walls and the ground within Tungar Kara, highlighting the transparency and accountability demonstrated by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar.
He noted that the Chief of Air Staff had been deeply disturbed since learning of the tragic incident.
“At least 16 community members were reportedly killed in a Military Air raid in Tungar Kara, after a pilot mistook local self-defence forces for criminal gangs,” Gabkwet remarked.
“Residents had mobilised from several neighbouring villages to confront gunmen who had attacked Dangebe village in Zurmi district, carting away livestock and burning homes.
“Reports say the group was returning to their villages after chasing away the bandits who attacked Dangebe when the fighter jet bombed them on reaching Tungar Kara village,” he explained.
Gabkwet emphasized the importance of taking responsibility for the incident, showing empathy to the affected individuals, and adhering to international humanitarian law to foster trust with local communities.
In an interview at the site, he assured that the Nigerian Air Force would carry out a forensic analysis of the evidence to provide critical insights that would enable the Chief of Air Staff to make well-informed decisions regarding the incident.
