Tragic Airstrike in Nigeria: Military Pilot Mistakes Civilians for Criminal Gangs, 16 Lives Lost

A tragic incident occurred in northwestern Nigeria's Zamfara state when a military airstrike mistakenly targeted a group of civilians, resulting in 16 deaths. According to local reports, the victims were residents mobilizing from various villages to confront a bandit attack in Dangebe village, which had left their homes burned and livestock stolen.

The airstrike took place late on Saturday as the self-defense group was returning home after successfully chasing away the assailants. Eyewitnesses stated that the military jet bombed the villagers as they reached Tungar Kara village. "Sixteen bodies have been found, but the toll may increase as the search for more remains continues," said Bube Namare, a local resident.

This incident marks the second accidental airstrike affecting civilians in less than a month, following a December attack in neighboring Sokoto state that also targeted civilians mistakenly. Amnesty International has called for an immediate investigation into the airstrike, highlighting the need for accountability as previous similar incidents have raised concerns regarding the military's engagement strategy in combat against criminal gangs and jihadists.

Military spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi did not respond to inquiries regarding the airstrike. The Nigerian military has faced increasing scrutiny over civilian casualties in its efforts to combat banditry and terrorism in the region, with several deadly airstrikes reported in the past.