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Nigeria Military Denies Civilian Deaths in Niger State Strikes, Says 70 Bandits Killed

Allegations of civilian harm are fueling calls for independent checks.

The Nigerian military is accused of killing civilians in its operations against 'bandit' gangs

Overview

  • The Nigerian Army's drone strikes, carried out overnight Sunday in Shiroro's Katerma, Bokko, Kusasu and Kuduru, targeted sites the military said hosted bandit gatherings.
  • Defence Headquarters said the operation was intelligence-led and reported about 70 militants killed in Kusasu, while asserting residents had moved to Sarkin Pawa before the hits.
  • Officials denied confirmed civilian deaths and directed field formations to verify any casualty claims that surface after the operation.
  • Post-strike assessments cited fighters regrouping, with more than 200 motorcycles seen moving toward Zango, which the military framed as a retreat by surviving gunmen.
  • Local media and AFP reported allegations of civilian casualties, including claims of 13 deaths in Niger State and a separate high toll at a Zamfara market, which the military disputed as it faced renewed scrutiny over recent deadly air operations.