The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the shooting incident involving its personnel and some civilians that occurred on Wednesday in Unguwan Gangare, Barakallahu, Kaduna State.
It had been reported that residents of Barikallahu, a community near the Air Force Institute of Technology in Kaduna State, were living in palpable fear after a NAF officer invaded the area, killing one person and injuring two others on Wednesday night.
The incident, which occurred at around 10pm, was captured in multiple videos that have now gone viral.
The footage showed a vehicle painted in military camouflage colours, bearing the NAF logo, arriving in the community.
Five armed personnel, apart from the driver, were seen stepping out of the vehicle.
The incident resulted in injuries to several individuals and the tragic loss of one life.
In a statement released by the NAF Spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, the NAF expressed deep regret over the incident and assured the public of a thorough investigation.
“We deeply regret the loss of a life and have reached out to the family of the deceased to express our condolences and assure them of a thorough investigation and justice,” Akinboyewa said.
“The NAF remains a highly disciplined and professional force committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct in all engagements,” the spokesperson added.
A full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is already underway. The NAF has vowed that any personnel found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
“Any personnel found culpable will face the full weight of the law in line with our commitment to justice and accountability,” Akinboyewa stated.
The NAF has also called for calm among the public as it works to ascertain the facts and ensure that appropriate actions are taken. “We urge members of the public to remain calm as we work diligently to ascertain the facts and ensure that appropriate actions are taken,” the spokesperson said.