Vigilante Deaths Regrettable But Terrorists Were Main Target — NAF
…Says Over 20 Terrorists Killed In Mai-Gaima Airstrike
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has countered a media report claiming that its fighter jet mistakenly killed over 20 vigilantes during an operation in Zamfara State.
NAF, contrary to the report, said it killed more than 20 armed terrorists and destroyed over 21 motorcycles during the operation on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
The air force said it launched the operation on credible intelligence that terrorists had mobilised south of Mai-Galma in the Maru Local Government Area to coordinate an attack on vulnerable communities.
The terrorists were said have already killed several farmers and abducted civilians, including women and children, before the intervention.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, on Monday, said the air component under Operation FANSAN YAMMA deployed aircraft for armed reconnaissance and rescue effort.
Ejodame said, “When the terrorists opened fire on the aircraft, a precision strike was executed, leading to the destruction of multiple motorcycles and the neutralisation of dozens of insurgents.”
He explained that upon arrival, NAF aircrew identified over 30 motorcycles transporting armed terrorists into a nearby forest. The crew engaged immediately when the insurgents opened fire.
Ejodame added, “Ground forces were promptly mobilised to exploit the aftermath of the airstrike. Their assessment confirmed the destruction of terrorist assets and the elimination of over 20 fighters. However, during the joint operation, two local vigilantes were killed, and two others sustained injuries in the crossfire.”
NAF, however, expressed regret over the loss of two vigilantes in the operation.
“The NAF deeply regrets the loss of these brave vigilantes and remains committed to working with local communities to ensure the safety and security of all citizens,” Ejodame said.
He further stated that the Air Force continues to pursue the terrorists who abducted civilians and took them into the adjoining forest.
Ejodame said NAF conducts all operations under strict rules of engagement, guided by international humanitarian law and the Nigerian Air Force Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMRAP).
“This framework prioritises the protection of civilian lives even during hostile confrontations.
“As investigations continue, the NAF assures the public that all necessary measures are taken to protect civilians while intensifying pressure on criminal elements threatening peace in the region,” he added.
Vigilante Deaths Regrettable But Terrorists Were Main Target — NAF is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
