NAF air strikes ‘kill five terrorist commanders’ in Borno

The air component of Operation Hadin Kai has reportedly eliminated five key terrorist commanders in Arina, southern Tumbuns of Borno.

The troops also “killed 35 other terrorist soldiers” during the air strike on August 16.

Edward Gabkwet, director of public relations and information of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), said this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Gabkwet said the commanders killed include Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (a.k.a Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki.

“Confirmatory intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance missions further conducted on Aug. 12 and Aug. 15 identified numerous terrorists and active structures concealed under trees,” the statement reads.

“Consequently, coordinated airstrikes were launched over the location, and the targets successfully engaged, resulting in the neutralization of several terrorists and the destruction of their structures.

“Battle damage assessment after the strikes revealed that several equipment, vehicles, water vessels and a suspected medical dispensary were obliterated by the strikes.”

He said bombardment followed intelligence revealing migration of terrorists into the area from neighbouring locations.

Gabkwet added that the air interdiction was meant to further weaken the activities of terrorists operating in the north-east, while also protecting innocent civilians and troops.

“Additionally, credible intelligence further revealed that five key terrorist leaders were either killed or severely injured in the strike,” Gabkwet said.

“This operation, no doubt, has 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.”