Killing of innocent Nigerians by airstrikes under probe
The Nigerian Air Force says it is initiating a probe into airstrikes that accidentally killed innocent civilians.
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, says he has set up a committee of officers to compile all allegations of accidental strikes on civilians and review the circumstances leading to such strikes in the course of operations.
He said this in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, on Thursday during the Force operation seminar with the theme: ‘Harnessing Nigerian Air Force Combat Experience in Joint Military Operations for Doctrinal Development.’
He said the operatives had neutralised the activities of terrorists in the country through intensive air interdiction of their locations and facilities.
According to him, the persistent strikes by the Air Force had degraded the resources of the bandits and disrupted their supply lines and denied them of their freedom of movement.
Amao also congratulated the newly-winged young pilots and urged them to be prepared for the arduous task ahead in their operational environment.
“Let me use this opportunity to remind you that in the conduct of NAF operations, we must always adhere to laid down Rules of Engagement.
“It is mandatory that we also protect civilians and minimise civilian casualties during our operations,” he advised.
He said the Force would take delivery of additional fighter helicopters from the Federal Government before the end of December.
He said the aircraft would boost Nigerian air power employment and projection capabilities as well as air combat training.
He added that the new delivery would be in addition to the already acquired 38 new aircraft since 2015.
Amao listed the aircraft being expected to include: 2 Agusta 109 Trekker multi-role helicopters, 2 Beechcraft King Air 360, 4 Diamond DA-62 surveillance aircraft, 3 Wing Loong II UCAVs and 6 T-129 ATAK helicopters.
Others include 2 CASA-295 medium airlift/surveillance aircraft, 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters and 24 M-346 attack aircraft.
“Under Mr President’s able leadership, the Federal Government has, since 2015, acquired 38 new aircraft to boost training and combat readiness of the NAF.
“A few of these additional platforms are expected to be delivered to the Nigerian Air Force in December 2022 while others are to be delivered with effect from 2023,” Amao said.
(NAN)
