Several civilians have reportedly been affected following an airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force at a market situated along the Borno–Yobe border.
The incident was said to have taken place on Saturday evening at Dilli Market in Yobe State, close to Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State.
Confirming the development, the Public Relations Officer of the Yobe State Police Command, Dungus Abdulkarim, said casualty figures were yet to be officially determined as of the time this report was filed.
He added, “We are aware of the incident that occurred at Dilli Market along the Borno–Yobe border, and we are currently gathering information on what transpired. At this moment, we do not have confirmed casualty figures, as details are still being verified.
“Security agencies are on the ground assessing the situation, while efforts are ongoing to ensure proper documentation and response, after which the public will be duly informed with accurate and official updates.”
Dilli Market serves as a commercial hub for traders and buyers from surrounding communities, including Giedam in Yobe State, as well as areas within the Gubio and Chibok axis and Benisheikh in Borno State.
Sources within the locality indicated that the airstrike occurred during a military operation aimed at suspected Boko Haram insurgents believed to be active in the area.
“The insurgents usually come to the market to collect levies from traders and gather supplies,” a source said.
Another source in Damaturu explained that the fighter jet was reportedly tracking suspected insurgents when the strike missed its intended target.
“At least 10 people were killed, while several others sustained injuries,” the source added.
As of press time, emergency responders were still attending to the situation, with injured victims said to be receiving treatment in hospitals located in Giedam and Damaturu.
The Nigerian Air Force had not released any official statement regarding the incident as of the time of filing this report.
(PUNCH)