The Nigerian military has mistakenly killed hundreds of civilians in airstrikes targeting armed groups in the nation’s conflict-battered north over the years.

At least 16 civilians in Nigeria's north-western Zamfara State have been killed in a military air strike, apparently after being mistaken for criminal gangs. Residents told local media the victims were members of local vigilante groups and civilians defending themselves from armed gangs notorious for kidnapping people for ransom.

A Nigerian military airstrike mistakenly hit civilians in Zamfara state targeting rebels. Community security members were killed, believing them to be fleeing bandits. The incident marks the third misfire in over a year.