Abuja, Nigeria, May 7, 2026
The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports alleging civilian casualties during a recent aerial interdiction operation in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, insisting that the strikes targeted armed bandits and terrorist enclaves.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, the military said the operation was conducted based on credible intelligence indicating the presence and gathering of armed bandits in Lukupe Village and nearby communities within Shiroro LGA.
According to the statement, intelligence reports and post-strike assessments confirmed that the operation successfully neutralised several terrorists, especially in Kusasu, where about 70 bandits were reportedly killed.
The military added that surviving terrorists were seen evacuating the bodies of their dead colleagues for burial, while over 200 armed fighters mounted on motorcycles reportedly fled towards Zango following the strikes.
The Defence Headquarters further stated that residents of nearby communities had relocated to Sarkin Pawa before the commencement of the operation, contradicting allegations that civilians were present at the targeted locations during the bombardment.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to protecting innocent citizens and conducting military operations in accordance with established rules of engagement and international laws governing armed conflict.
