The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the neutralisation of several terrorists and the disruption of planned attacks following a series of intelligence-led air operations conducted across parts of Niger State.
According to the NAF, the operations were carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 between May 20 and 23, targeting terrorist hideouts and movements in Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the military said the missions were launched based on credible intelligence reports of terrorist activities and impending attacks in affected communities.
Ejodame disclosed that on May 20, air strikes were launched around Tungan Bako and Kasuwan Daji in Rafi LGA after intelligence revealed the movement and gathering of suspected terrorists in the area.
He said the Air Component, working alongside the Nigerian Army Space Command Regiment, executed precision strikes that neutralised several terrorists and disrupted their operational build-up.
The following day, May 21, terrorists reportedly travelling on motorcycles and moving with rustled cattle from Tungunguna towards Uregi were identified and engaged by air assets, resulting in the elimination of several fighters and the destruction of their movement routes.
The Air Force also provided close air support to troops engaged in combat with terrorists at Tungan Makeri on the same day, helping security forces regain operational advantage on the ground.
Continuing the offensive on May 23, the Air Component carried out armed reconnaissance missions over Dogon Dawa and nearby communities in Mariga LGA following reports of planned terrorist attacks on military positions.
NAF said terrorists seen making tactical movements in the area were swiftly targeted through precision strikes, leading to the neutralisation of a significant number of fighters and the disruption of planned attacks.
“Post-strike assessments confirmed the effectiveness of the missions in degrading terrorist capabilities and denying the terrorists freedom of action within the general area,” the statement noted.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended personnel involved in the operations for their professionalism and assured Nigerians that the Air Force would continue aggressive intelligence-driven operations to combat terrorist threats and protect lives and property.
