Before The Military Operation Began, We Warned Civilians To Evacuate, Which They Did- Maurice Magaji
According to a report by the Punch on Monday, May 11, 2026, a military airstrike in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State reportedly targeted suspected terrorists and their collaborators during an ongoing security operation aimed at curbing insecurity in the region.
The operation, which took place in the early hours of Sunday around Kusasu community, was said to be based on intelligence gathered by security agencies tracking the movements and activities of armed groups operating within the area… …WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Residents reported that the incident caused tension in nearby communities, with uncertainty spreading as news of the strike filtered through the area...READ FULL STORY; FROM THE SOURCE.
Local sources claimed that the impact of the airstrike was felt in parts of the community close to the targeted location, although official accounts maintained that the operation was carefully executed with prior safety measures in place. Authorities stressed that efforts were made to reduce civilian exposure before the strike was carried out.
The Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Maurice Magaji, confirmed the operation and explained that residents were not left in harm’s way before military action began.
Speaking on the development, Maurice Magaji said: “Before the military operation began, we warned civilians to evacuate, which they did.”
He further explained that the strike was aimed strictly at terrorist elements and individuals allegedly supporting or collaborating with them, adding that security forces acted on credible intelligence after sustained surveillance of the area.
Magaji noted that criminal groups in Shiroro often operate by blending into different communities, making targeted military responses necessary to disrupt their networks. He added that the operation forms part of wider efforts by security agencies to restore peace and reduce repeated attacks in Niger State.
He also stated that security monitoring is still ongoing in the affected area, with further assessments being carried out to ensure stability returns to the communities impacted by the operation.
