An airstrike in Kakindawa village, Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State has reportedly led to the death of 16 vigilantes.
The unfortunate incident happened on Saturday evening when the vigilante group was on its way to Tungar Kara village to assist the residents following an attack by bandits.
NAF spokesman, AVM Olusola Akinboyewa disclosed that troops of Operation Fansan Yamma coordinated air and ground assaults on Fakai Hills in Zamfara State.
According to him, the troops neutralised scores of bandits loyal to the notorious kingpin, Kachallah Bello Turji.
Speaking on the airstrike, Umar who lives in Kakindawa village revealed that the NAF aircraft dropped a bomb on the vigilantes even though the bandits had already evacuated the area.
“The bandits went to Tungar Kara village and attempted to rustle animals and kidnap the inhabitants.
“When we received the information, we mobilised our vigilante group and headed to the village to assist.
“Unfortunately, as the vigilante group was about to reach the village, an aircraft suddenly appeared and dropped a bomb on them, even though the bandits had already escaped into the forest.
“We counted 16 people killed in the bombardment, including my son,” he said.