The Nigerian military has clarified that the deaths of 10 villagers in Sokoto State were caused by a secondary explosion at a terrorist logistics base, rather than a direct airstrike. According to Maj-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, the airstrike was a precision-guided operation targeting the terrorist hideout.
Major General Buba explained that the terrorists’ logistics base housed dangerous materials, including hand cartridges and explosives, which detonated when struck by the Air Force’s precision munitions. This secondary explosion caused the reported casualties.
The military had conducted extensive intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations before the airstrike to confirm the presence of terrorists in the area. The operation was planned as a joint effort between the air and land components to minimize harm to civilians.
Ground forces confirmed the destruction of the terrorists’ key infrastructure and the neutralisation of several combatants during the operation. Locals in the community also confirmed that the terrorists had been using the area as a staging ground for their operations.
The military has assured that it will continue its operations to dismantle terrorist networks while minimising harm to civilians and their communities.
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