The Defence Headquarters has expressed deep regret over civilian deaths in the wake of military operations in Kaduna, labelling them as unnecessary tragedies, News About Nigeria reports.
Major Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, conveyed this sentiment in a statement addressing the accidental bombing incident in Tudun Biri, Kaduna State, on Sunday, which claimed the lives of at least 85 villagers.
Buba clarified that the military observed suspicious activities and the movement of terrorists in the area, prompting the use of drones for surveillance.
The terrorists’ presence posed a threat to critical infrastructure and residents, leading to the decision to eliminate the threat.
The statement read, “It should be noted that terrorists often deliberately embed themselves within civilian population centres for the civilian population to bear the consequences of their atrocities. Nevertheless, the Nigerian military does its best at all times to distinguish between civilians and terrorists.”
Buba said that civilian casualties are viewed as tragedies, and the military endeavours to prevent such incidents.
He outlined measures taken, including providing precise instructions to communities and encouraging residents to alert troops of their activities, especially in areas known to be infested with terrorists.
Assuring that the military would continue to operate in line with international laws, Buba stated, “The armed forces will continue to operate consistent with international law as it always has done. It will also continue its determined and cautious progress in eradicating terrorists from our land.”
He acknowledged the challenges posed by terrorists disguising themselves as civilians and affirmed the military’s commitment to finding innovative solutions in the ongoing operations against terrorism.
