THE Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma has refuted reports alleging that a military jet targeted civilian structures in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre, issued the clarification in a statement made available to News Point Nigeria, Wednesday night.
This newspaper had reported that many villagers were feared dead while several others injured as a fighter jet targeting Lakurawa terrorist group mistakingly bombed two communities in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
A resident of Silame, who gave his name as Malam Yahya, noted that the two villages were located close to Surame Forest identified as another hideout of Lakurawa and bandits.
But according to the statement, the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa have been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the military action taken.
See full statement below:
Press Statement
Joint Task Force North West Clarifies Reports on Jet Strike in Sokoto*
The Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma has addressed recent reports concerning a military fighter jet allegedly bombing civilian structures in the Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State. These reports have raised concerns; however, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions.
This rigorous process is particularly important when targeting groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organization, as it aims to ensure precision and protect civilian lives.
Given the serious nature of these operations, the public is urged to rely on confirmed information to prevent misinformation and unnecessary panic.
There is a significant risk that terrorist groups may attempt to undermine military successes through media disinformation, necessitating caution concerning unverified claims, especially in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.
Importantly, the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa have been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the military action taken.
ABUBAKAR ABDULLAHI, Lieutenant Colonel, Coordinator Joint Media Coordination Centre, Operation Fansan Yamma, 25 December 2024