An airstrike carried out by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) against suspected members of the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State has reportedly resulted in civilian casualties, raising fresh concerns over the conduct of aerial operations in conflict zones.
A security source who spoke with Premium Times said the airstrikes were carried out between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the Mararaba axis of Kukawa Local Government Area. The incident reportedly happened just hours after the Air Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilian lives during counterterrorism operations supported by the United States.
According to the source, the strike hit an area where fishermen and commercial drivers had gathered at a junction linking Daban Masara in Kukawa and Badeiri in Marte Local Government Area. The drivers were said to be waiting to transport fish and fishermen to nearby communities when the airstrike occurred.
The source confirmed at least three deaths and the destruction of about 10 vehicles but noted that the actual number of civilian casualties could be higher. “The number of civilians killed is uncertain, but many lives were lost and several vehicles were destroyed,” the source said, adding that injured victims were taken to the General Hospital in Monguno for medical treatment.
A Nigerian Air Force officer, identified as a pilot, also confirmed the incident, saying it was discussed during an official briefing held in a North-Western state. However, as of the time of reporting, the Air Force had not issued any public statement on the matter.
Security analyst Brant Philip also acknowledged the incident, stating that available reports suggested the affected vehicles belonged to fishermen rather than ISWAP fighters. He noted that large numbers of civilians operate in areas under extremist influence, often out of economic necessity.
“More than 10,000 fishermen work in ISWAP-controlled territories, paying taxes to the group in exchange for protection from bandits and rival factions. It is not unusual for civilians to be present in these locations,” Philip said, urging the Nigerian Air Force to release an official clarification on the incident.
The reported airstrike has renewed calls for greater transparency and improved intelligence gathering to minimise civilian harm during counterinsurgency operations in the North-East.
