The Joint Task Force North-West, operating under ‘Operation Fansan Yamma,’ has reaffirmed that its recent airstrike in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State targeted positions linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group, not innocent civilians.
This statement comes in response to reports alleging that a military fighter jet bombed civilian homes in two villages in the region.
The military issued the clarification on Wednesday through Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, the Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre for Operation Fansan Yamma.
The military emphasized that its operations are carried out based on comprehensive intelligence and reconnaissance to ensure precision, particularly when targeting groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organization.
“Precision is key in such operations, and we work to minimize harm to civilians,” the statement read.
“We urge the public to rely on verified information to avoid spreading misinformation and causing undue panic.”
The statement also warned that terrorist groups might attempt to use media disinformation to distort military achievements.
It reiterated that the targets near Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa were identified as belonging to the Lakurawa group, justifying the military’s actions.