NAF strikes 30 terrorists, in Katsina, Borno

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reported a significant victory in its counter-terrorism efforts, successfully neutralizing 30 terrorists through precision airstrikes in Katsina and Borno.

This operation is part of the broader efforts under Operations Hadarin Daji and Hadin Kai.

The NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, AVM Edward Gabkwet, issued a statement on Wednesday in Abuja detailing the operations.

According to Gabkwet, the air component of Operation Hadarin Daji carried out strikes on May 27, targeting hideouts of terrorists loyal to a notorious kingpin known as Babura. These strikes were conducted in areas around Bakai, Bakarya, and Yartsintsiya in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Gabkwet stated that credible intelligence confirmed the elimination of about 30 terrorists. Although Babura narrowly escaped, many of his foot soldiers were killed in the operation.

Simultaneously, similar air strikes were executed by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai at Tumbun Fulani, near Lake Chad. These strikes targeted a previously abandoned terrorist hideout. The authorization for these strikes followed Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions that detected patterns indicating the relocation of terrorists and their logistics to new hideouts.

Gabkwet recalled that the same location had been targeted by NAF aircraft on September 26 and 28, 2023, resulting in the elimination of several terrorists and the destruction of their logistics and mobility resources.

Terrorists’ return to previously cleared area showcases ongoing success of air and ground troops in disrupting their hideouts.

NAF’s precise airstrikes demonstrate strategic approach to degrading terrorism and ensuring regional stability.

(NAN)