NAF Airstrikes Decimate Terrorist Enclaves in North-East, North-West Regions, Neutralizing Key Figures

In a series of precision airstrikes, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) successfully eliminated several terrorists and disrupted their activities in the North-East and North-West regions of the country. These operations were conducted in conjunction with the ground forces and other security agencies, contributing to the ongoing efforts to maintain security and protect civilians from the threats posed by insurgent groups.

According to Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF spokesperson, these coordinated operations were instrumental in preventing terrorists, insurgents, and criminal elements from posing significant security risks to the local population.

In the North-East, a recent airstrike on November 3 by the air component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) targeted a gathering of key terrorist figures near Degbawa, hidden within the Mandara Mountains in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno. The airstrike was prompted by intelligence reports indicating the presence of these high-value targets and their foot soldiers at the location.

Gabkwet explained that the terrorists had deliberately chosen this secluded area to evade detection, particularly by NAF aircraft. However, the precision airstrike revealed the terrorists’ presence and resulted in the elimination of several of them. This operation dealt a significant blow to the terrorist group, which has been facing increasing pressure from both air and ground components of OPHK.

The NAF spokesperson also pointed out that there are strong indications that these terrorists were responsible for a recent attack on the residents of Geidam Local Government Area in Yobe on October 31.

In the North-West, Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) conducted a series of successful airstrikes on November 1 in the Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State. These airstrikes targeted the hideout of a notorious terrorist kingpin, Babaru, who had been implicated in various acts of terrorism and banditry across Kankara and adjacent LGAs in Katsina State. Babaru was also linked to the brutal massacre of over 100 residents of Gidan Gari and Yarmai-Yadiya villages in Bakori Local Government Area on February 2.

The airstrikes in Katsina State led to the destruction of Babaru’s hideout and the elimination of several terrorists. While there was no immediate confirmation of whether Babaru himself was among those neutralized, this operation dealt a significant blow to his network.

Additionally, airstrikes targeted the hideout of another notorious terrorist kingpin known as Mai Solar in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara. These strikes successfully destroyed clusters of enclaves used as hideouts by Mai Solar and his associates, with a number of survivors observed fleeing the scene. However, it remained unconfirmed whether Mai Solar was among the terrorists eliminated during this operation.

The NAF’s relentless efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency in these regions continue to disrupt the activities of these groups, safeguarding the security and well-being of the local population.