DHQ denies civilian casualties in Niger airstrikes, says 70 bandits killed

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed allegations of civilian casualties during recent aerial bombardments in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, insisting that the operations were carefully executed against identified bandit and terrorist enclaves.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Michael Onoja, the director of Defence Media Operations, said the air interdiction missions were launched following credible intelligence reports on the movement and assembly of heavily armed bandits in Lukupe Village and adjoining communities within Shiroro LGA.

According to the military, the coordinated strikes were conducted by the Nigerian Army UAV Command between the night of May 9 and the early hours of May 10, 2026, targeting suspected terrorist hideouts in Katerma, Bokko, Kusasu, and Kuduru villages.

The DHQ disclosed that intelligence reports and post-strike assessments confirmed the successful neutralisation of several terrorists during the operation, particularly in Kusasu, where about 70 bandits were reportedly killed.

The military further revealed that surviving members of the criminal groups were observed evacuating corpses of their fallen colleagues for burial, while over 200 armed fighters riding motorcycles allegedly fled towards Zango following the bombardment.

It also stated that intelligence indicated fresh movements of armed groups converging around Kopa, east of Mongoro, where they were reportedly planning attacks on security formations and surrounding communities.

Reacting to reports alleging civilian deaths, the Defence Headquarters maintained that the operation was “meticulously planned and executed” based on actionable intelligence, stressing that all targets struck were verified terrorist enclaves.

The DHQ added that residents of neighbouring communities had reportedly relocated to Sarkin Pawa before the strikes commenced, arguing that this contradicted claims that civilians were present in the affected locations during the operation.

“Contrary to the narrative being circulated, the strikes were precisely targeted at identified terrorist enclaves and achieved their intended military objectives,” the statement said.

The military said relevant formations had been directed to investigate claims of civilian casualties in order to establish the true situation on the ground.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to protecting innocent citizens and conducting military operations in accordance with established rules of engagement and international laws governing armed conflict.

It also urged journalists and members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified reports capable of undermining ongoing counterterrorism operations or aiding terrorist propaganda.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to pursue and neutralise all threats to national security with precision, professionalism, and resolve,” the statement added.