An aerial operation carried out by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) against suspected fighters of the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State has reportedly resulted in the deaths of several civilians, although the exact number remains unclear.
A security source who spoke with Premium Times revealed that the air raids took place between 6:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. in the Mararaba area of Kukawa Local Government Area. The strikes were reportedly conducted as part of ongoing counterinsurgency operations in the region.
The incident occurred just hours after the Nigerian Air Force publicly reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding civilian lives during military operations, including those supported by the United States.
According to the source, the airstrikes hit a location where fishermen and commercial drivers had gathered at a junction linking the road to Daban Masara in Kukawa Local Government Area and Badeiri in Marte Local Government Area. The area reportedly serves as a transit point where drivers assemble to transport fish and fishermen to nearby communities and markets.
The source confirmed that at least three civilian deaths had been verified, while about 10 vehicles were destroyed in the attack. However, he noted that the actual number of casualties could be significantly higher. “The exact figure of civilians killed is still unknown, but many people lost their lives and several vehicles were damaged,” the source said.
It was further disclosed that some of the injured victims were taken to the General Hospital in Monguno for medical treatment.
A Nigerian Air Force officer, identified as a pilot, also confirmed the incident to Premium Times, stating that the matter was discussed during an official briefing held earlier in the day at a location in Nigeria’s North-West region.
As of the time of reporting, the Nigerian Air Force has not released an official statement addressing the incident or clarifying the circumstances surrounding the reported civilian casualties.
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