DHQ Rejects Civilian Death Claims in Zamfara Terrorist Airstrike

By Angel Nwaozuzu

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted media reports of civilian casualties from a May 10 airstrike in Zamfara State, insisting it precisely targeted terrorist leaders.

DHQ Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, labeled circulating casualty figures misleading, speculative, and unverified in a Tuesday statement.

Troops from Operation FANSAN YAMMA (Joint Task Force North West) struck a terrorist coordination hub in Tumfa Village, Shinkafi LGA, based on multi-source intelligence for imminent regional attacks.

Battle Damage Assessment confirmed several terrorists neutralised, DHQ said, noting air interdictions limit on-site verification and urging caution on unverified media claims.

DHQ dismissed allegations from rights groups, stating no credible evidence shows civilian impact. The site housed armed non-state actors threatening locals.

“Civilians are never targets, and every operational measure prevents harm,” the statement affirmed.

Operations follow strict Rules of Engagement and International Humanitarian Law, distinction, proportionality, precaution.