NAF airstrikes ‘kill several Boko Haram terrorists’ in Borno

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says “scores of Boko Haram terrorists” were killed during airstrikes at “two strategic meeting points” in Bula Marwa, Borno state.

Olusola Akinboyewa, the NAF spokesperson, said in a statement on Monday that the October 25 operation followed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

Akinboyewa added that Bula Marwa had been identified as a high-level gathering site for Boko Haram’s “notorious figures.”

He said an influx of motorcycles and gatherings of combatants were observed at the location.

“Upon ISR confirmation of increased activity in Bula Marwa, fighter jets were deployed to conduct an air interdiction mission,” the statement reads.

“The first strike targeted a primary meeting location where terrorists on 12 motorcycles had gathered, effectively neutralising those at the site.

“A follow-up strike was carried out after ISR assets observed additional terrorists returning to assess the damage, resulting in further neutralisations.

“Further ISR missions identified another group of terrorists assembled under a large tree, which led to a second precision strike, inflicting additional losses.”

Akinboyewa noted that the airstrikes dismantled Boko Haram terrorists’ capacity to mobilise in the area while also hindering their ability to stage ambushes and other hostile operations.

“This impactful strike reinforces the commitment of the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai to eradicating terrorist threats in northeastern Nigeria,” he added.