The Nigerian Air Force has reported that airstrikes conducted by its fighter jets have resulted in the death or severe injury of five key terrorist commanders and approximately 35 fighters in Borno State.
The strikes occurred during operations in the Arina area, located in the Southern Tumbuns region of the state, on August 18.
According to The PUNCH, the affected commanders, identified in a statement by the NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, include Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla, known as Dan Hausawan Jubillaram, Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki.
Gabkwet said, “In a decisive effort to further weaken the activities of the remnant of terrorists operating in the Northeast while also protecting innocent civilians and own troops, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has successfully executed an air interdiction mission on August 16, 2024, in Arina, Southern Tumbuns, Borno State.”
He further revealed that “credible intelligence” indicated the presence of these terrorist leaders at the targeted location during the operation.
The airstrikes were specifically aimed at undermining the operational capabilities of the terrorists, who had reportedly moved into the area from neighboring regions.
Gabkwet detailed the prelude to the mission, stating, “Before the mission, intelligence had revealed the clandestine migration of terrorists into the area from neighbouring locations. Confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions were further conducted on 12 and 15 August 2024, which identified numerous terrorists and active structures concealed under trees.”
These ISR missions were instrumental in pinpointing the terrorists’ exact positions, leading to the coordinated airstrikes that followed.
The operation successfully neutralized the terrorists and destroyed several of their assets.
“Consequently, coordinated airstrikes were launched over the location, and the targets successfully engaged, resulting in the neutralisation of several terrorists and the destruction of their structures,” Gabkwet explained.
The Battle Damage Assessment conducted after the strikes revealed extensive destruction, including the obliteration of equipment, vehicles, water vessels, and what appeared to be a medical dispensary used by the terrorists.
Gabkwet emphasized the significance of this operation in the ongoing efforts to stabilize the region, noting, “This operation has, no doubt, significantly degraded the operational capacity of the few remaining terrorists in the region. The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to supporting the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in safeguarding the region and ensuring peace and security prevail.”
This operation marks a continued strategic offensive against the remnants of terrorist groups in the Northeast, aiming to restore peace and security to the region.
