The Nigerian Air Force has admitted that the operation carried out by the Air component of operation Fansan Yamma had impacted Tungar Kara, saying the on-the-spot assessment Carried out by the Fact-Finding Team revealed the point of impact on building destroyed, ground and trees.
The leader of the Fact-Finding Team, Air Vice Marshall Edward Gabkwet, who led other members of the team to the affected community, Tungar Kara, said they had noted the point of impact of the bullet on the wall and ground within the community.
He underscored the sincerity, transparency, and accountability of purpose which the Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar had exhibited, and has been worried since he got news of the unfortunate incident.
At least 16 civilians were reportedly killed in a Military Air raid in Tungar Kara, northwestern Nigerian state of Zamfara after a pilot mistook local self-defence forces for criminal gangs
Residents had mobilised from several neighbouring villages to confront gunmen who had attacked Dangebe village in Zurmi district, carting away livestock and burning homes.
Reports say the group was returning to their villages after chasing away the bandits who attacked Dangebe when the fighter jet bombed them on reaching Tungar Kara village.
Air Vice Marshall Gabkwet said there is need to take responsibility for such unfortunate incident and show empathy to the affected people in line with the international humanitarian law as well as to build trust with the people which is required to win the war against Banditry.
He told journalists during an interview in the affected community that the Nigerian Air Force will conduct a forensic analysis of the evidence to come up with useful information that will help the Chief of Air Staff make informed decisions about the unfortunate incident.
Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie
