The Nigerian Air Force has constituted an investigation team following reports that an air operation against bandits mistakenly killed two residents and injured six others in Kurigi community, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
Residents said a military helicopter hovered over the area on Sunday before opening fire, with bullets reportedly hitting civilians in their homes.
One resident, Suleiman Sanusi, said the incident triggered panic and displacement, as many villagers fled to Bangi town and other locations.
He described the attack as unprovoked and called for urgent investigation and medical support for victims.
Reacting, the NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the probe aligns with the Air Force’s principles of accountability, responsibility and transparency.
He assured Nigerians that the protection of civilians remains central to NAF operations and confirmed that a Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation team had been activated to carry out a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.
