Eniola Olorundare
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) begins investigation in Yobe as regards bombing in Yunusari Local Government Area of the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Yunusari, which shares an international border with Niger Republic has an area of 3,790 km2 and a population of 125,821 according to the 2006 census.
According to the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, on Thursday in Abuja, “Following intelligence on insurgents movements along the Kamadougou Yobe River line, an aircraft from the Air Component of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ was detailed to respond to the suspected insurgents activities in the area along the Nigeria/Niger border at about 0600hrs on Sept 15.
“The aircraft while operating South of Kanama observed suspicious movement consistent with the insurgents behaviour whenever a Jet aircraft is overhead.
“Accordingly, the pilot fired some probing shots. It is important to state that the area is well known for continuous insurgents activities.
“But unfortunately, reports reaching NAF Headquarters alleged that some civilians were erroneously killed while others were injured.
The Director said that the initial release denying the involvement of NAF aircraft was based on the first report available to the Air Component which was subsequently forwarded to NAF headquarters.
Gov. Mai Mala-Buni of Yobe has directed government hospitals in Geidam and Damaturu to offer free medical services to those who sustained injuries in the disaster.
Buni also directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide relief materials to victims.
