The Zamfara State Government has commended the Nigerian military for its intensified efforts against banditry in the state, while expressing deep sorrow over the unintended civilian casualties from a recent military airstrike.
Governor Dauda Lawal lauded the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its precision operations, which he described as a significant step in crippling the activities of armed bandits. Over the weekend, NAF jets targeted bandit camps in Zurmi and Maradun local government areas under Operation Hadarin Daji, leading to notable successes against the insurgents.
However, in the process, members of a local vigilante group were mistakenly killed in Tungar Kara, Zurmi Local Government Area (LGA), sparking grief across the state.
A statement from Sulaiman Bala Idris, the spokesperson for the governor, highlighted the positive outcomes of the strikes. According to him, the operations have “significantly degraded the operational capacity of the bandits” and reinforced the military’s constitutional role of safeguarding lives and property.
“We have received multiple positive reports of precision strikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansar Yamma over the weekend,” the statement read.
Despite these achievements, the airstrikes in Tungar Kara led to the tragic deaths of local vigilantes, identified as members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF), who were mistakenly targeted while fleeing bandit-infested areas.
“This tragic incident affected members of the local vigilante group who were providing critical support to security forces,” the statement acknowledged. “We pray to Almighty Allah to grant them Jannah and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families.”
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Governor Lawal’s administration emphasized its dedication to restoring peace across Zamfara by providing comprehensive support to security agencies. The governor reiterated the need for collaboration between state and federal forces to sustain the momentum gained in the fight against banditry.
“The recent success indicates that collaborative efforts between the state and federal security agencies yield positive results,” Idris noted.
The government promised to continue strengthening intelligence-sharing, providing logistical support, and engaging with communities to create an environment conducive to lasting peace.
In a bold reassurance to the people of Zamfara, the governor stated, “The sacrifices of our fallen heroes—whether military personnel or civilian vigilantes—will not be in vain.”
The Tungar Kara incident underscores the human toll of the ongoing conflict in Zamfara. While military operations have intensified, ensuring civilian safety remains a challenge. Vigilantes, often the first line of defense for rural communities, play a crucial role in intelligence gathering and direct confrontations with bandits.
Over the years, Zamfara has become a hotbed of criminal activity, with bandits terrorizing remote villages, abducting civilians for ransom, and looting livestock. In response, local vigilantes formed the JTF to complement formal security efforts. However, the lack of clear coordination has occasionally led to tragic misidentifications, as seen in this latest incident.
One survivor of the Tungar Kara airstrike, who requested anonymity, described the scene as chaotic: “We were retreating after bandits attacked our village. Suddenly, jets came, and everything turned to fire. It was devastating.”
The Nigerian Air Force has yet to release an official statement on the incident, but military sources hinted at the possibility of faulty intelligence leading to the misfire.
Governor Lawal’s administration has called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security forces. “Through collective effort and unity of purpose, the fight against banditry can be won,” the governor urged.
The government also pledged support to families of the victims, describing their contributions as invaluable to the quest for peace in Zamfara. “We assure the bereaved families that the government will provide necessary assistance to ease their burden during this difficult time,” the statement concluded.
Despite the tragedy, many in Zamfara see the recent military success as a glimmer of hope in the long-running war against banditry. Security analysts have noted that sustained operations like Operation Fansar Yamma are critical to dismantling the infrastructure of criminal networks in the region.
However, they also stress the need for accurate intelligence, better communication between military forces and local vigilantes, and stronger engagement with affected communities to prevent future civilian losses.
For the people of Zamfara, peace remains an elusive but cherished goal. Governor Lawal’s administration faces the dual challenge of ensuring security while fostering trust and healing in a state ravaged by years of violence.
