Again, 6 civilians feared killed in Katsina Military airstrike

A military airstrike in Katsina State has tragically claimed the lives of six civilians in Yauni community, Zakka ward of Safana Local Government Area.

The airstrike, which occurred on Saturday, followed a fierce gun battle between security personnel and bandits. According to reports, the bandits had planned an attack on voters in Zakka village during the local government elections. Security forces responded swiftly, engaging the assailants in an exchange of gunfire. In the aftermath of the clash, a military fighter jet, believed to have been deployed for reinforcement, mistakenly dropped a bomb on Yauni community, located south of Zakka.

A local source told newsmen that the victims were all members of the same family. “It was after that incident that the military fighter jet, which most likely came to offer reinforcement, dropped a bomb at Yauni community, south of Zakka, which led to the death of six members of a family, while one woman sustained injuries,” the source said.

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The tragic event has reignited concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire of military operations. Many residents have expressed fear and frustration, calling for more precise and cautious strategies from the military to avoid accidental casualties.

This is not the first time that accidental airstrikes have resulted in the loss of innocent lives in Katsina. Previous incidents have fueled ongoing debates about the conduct of military operations in conflict-prone areas.

The incident has once again amplified calls for the military to adopt greater precision in its operations, ensuring that civilian lives are not put at risk in the fight against banditry and terrorism. As investigations continue, the affected families and the broader community are left mourning yet another heartbreaking loss.