Military Airstrikes Kill 70 Bandits in Niger State, DHQ Denies Civilian Casualties

The Defence Headquarters has rejected claims that civilians lost their lives during recent military airstrikes in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, maintaining that the operation was targeted solely at armed bandits.

Military authorities disclosed that the air interdiction was carried out between the night of May 10 and the early hours of May 11, 2026, following intelligence reports that armed bandits had gathered at Lukupe Village. The Nigerian Army UAV Command conducted multiple strikes on identified bandit hideouts in Katerma, Bokko, Kusasu, and Kuduru villages.

According to military sources, about 70 bandits were neutralised in Kusasu alone, with survivors seen evacuating the bodies of their colleagues for burial. Local intelligence confirmed that the aerial bombardment was precise on target in Kusasu, Katerma, and Bokko.

The Defence Headquarters explained that the operation was meticulously planned based on credible and actionable intelligence confirming the presence of terrorists at the specific locations. Contrary to viral reports circulating on Sunday alleging civilian deaths, the military insisted that residents of the affected communities had relocated to Sarkin Pawa before the operation commenced.

Post-strike assessments indicated that movements recorded after the bombardment were those of a degraded criminal force rather than fleeing civilians. However, relevant military formations have been directed to verify any claims of civilian casualties.

The military also noted that over 200 armed bandits on motorcycles were sighted moving towards Zango, while another group from Bokko advanced in the same direction, possibly to regroup for attacks on Sarkin Pawa, Kuchi, or government security facilities.

The Defence Headquarters urged the media and the public to refrain from spreading unverified reports that could undermine military operations and troop morale, reaffirming that all operations are conducted in strict accordance with rules of engagement and applicable laws.