Following intelligence on insurgent movements along the Kamadougou Yobe River line, an aircraft from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai was detailed to respond to the suspected terrorists activities in the area along the Nigeria/Niger border yesterday.
This was contained in a statement by Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Airforce Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet.
It explained that the aircraft while operating South of Kanama, observed suspicious movement consistent with Boko Haram terrorists behaviour whenever a Jet aircraft is overhead and accordingly, the pilot fired some probing shots, stressing that the area is well known for continuous Boko Haram /ISWAP activities.
Regrettably, reports reaching Nigerian Air Force Headquarters alleged that some civilians were erroneously killed while others were injured.
It pointed out that initial release denying the involvement of NAF aircraft was based on the first report available to the Air Component which was subsequently forwarded to NAF headquarters that civilians were bombed as the aircraft detailed for the mission was not carrying bombs.
It adds that a board of Inquiry has been set up to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the incident.
Usman Sani.
