Defence Headquarters has confirmed that over 70 bandits were killed in aerial operations conducted in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The strikes took place between 11:59 p.m. on May 9 and 6:00 a.m. on May 10 in Katerma, Bokko, Kusasu and Kuduru villages. Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, said the operations followed credible intelligence about armed bandits converging at Lukupe Village and other locations in the area. The Nigerian Army UAV Command carried out the airstrikes targeting identified bandit enclaves.
Post-strike assessments and local sources confirmed the accuracy of the strikes, particularly in Kusasu, Katerma and Bokko. About 70 bandits were neutralised in Kusasu alone, according to Onoja. Survivors were seen gathering remains for burial. More than 200 armed fighters on motorcycles retreated toward Zango, with other groups advancing from Bokko, indicating possible plans to attack nearby communities or security installations. Another group was observed moving toward Kopa, east of Mongoro, prompting further military action.
The military dismissed claims of civilian casualties. Onoja stated that residents from the affected villages had relocated to Sarkin Pawa before the operation began. This, he said, refutes assertions that civilians were present during the strikes. However, military formations have been directed to verify any allegations of civilian harm. Onoja reiterated the Armed Forces' commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and following rules of engagement. He urged the public and media to avoid spreading unverified reports that could encourage criminals or weaken confidence in security operations. "The Armed Forces will continue to pursue and neutralise all threats to national security with precision, professionalism and resolve," he said.
The military claims residents evacuated to Sarkin Pawa before the airstrikes, yet offers no evidence of how or when this was coordinated with civilians. If people were indeed moved, it raises questions about how such logistics were executed in a remote conflict zone. The same precision touted in targeting bandits has not been demonstrated in transparent communication with affected communities. Without verified accounts from residents, the assurance of no civilian harm rests solely on military assertion.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
