KEY POINTS
- Terrorist logistics base explosion caused fatalities, not the airstrike itself.
- Intelligence and surveillance guided the operation’s timing and execution.
- The area was identified as a high-concentration hideout for the Lakurawa group.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that the deaths of 10 villagers in Sokoto were caused by a secondary explosion at a Lakurawa terrorist logistics base, not by a direct airstrike.
Major-General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, said the explosion occurred after precision-guided munitions struck the base, which housed dangerous materials such as explosives and cartridges.
“The airstrike hit the logistics base, triggering secondary explosions that caused the casualties,” Buba stated during a press briefing.
Intelligence and precision planning behind the operation
According to the DHQ, the operation was carefully planned and executed to minimize civilian casualties. Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions were conducted over an extended period, corroborated by human intelligence to confirm terrorist activity in the area.
“The operation was initially scheduled for an earlier date but was rescheduled to avoid human casualties. Our aim was to neutralize the terrorists while sparing civilians,” Buba said.
Ground forces confirmed the destruction of terrorist infrastructure and the elimination of several combatants, while some survivors fled the area.
Community members confirmed that the terrorists used the area as a staging ground for operations. According to Punch, Buba added that the military will continue its targeted operations to dismantle terrorist networks while minimizing harm to civilians.
“Our primary objective was achieved, and the impact on surrounding villages was minimal,” Buba assured.
