Sokoto, Nigeria – The Nigerian Air Force is investigating reports of civilian casualties following airstrikes conducted in the Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The airstrikes, targeting suspected terrorist hideouts in the Surame Forest, reportedly resulted in the deaths of several civilians in the communities of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa.
Local sources claim that at least 10 people were killed in the incident. While the Air Force spokesperson, Olusola Akinboyewa, acknowledged the reports, he emphasized that the strikes were based on credible intelligence and that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the extent of civilian casualties. 
This incident echoes a similar tragedy that occurred in Kaduna State last year, where an airstrike during a religious celebration tragically resulted in the deaths of at least 85 civilians.
The Nigerian military continues to combat the threat of armed banditry in the northwestern region, but these incidents highlight the critical need for precision and caution to minimize civilian harm during counter-terrorism operations.
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