- The airstrike successfully targeted and neutralized several terrorists, destroying their structures and equipment.
- The operation has significantly weakened the terrorist presence in the North East, according to Gabkwet.
The Nigerian Air Force has conducted a successful airstrike against terrorist commanders and fighters in Borno State.
The operation, carried out on August 18, targeted the Arina area in Southern Tumbuns, resulting in the neutralization of five top terrorist leaders and 35 fighters.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet identified the affected commanders as Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla, Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki.
The airstrike was part of a broader effort to degrade terrorist capabilities in the Northeast while ensuring the safety of civilians and troops.
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.
“Additionally, credible intelligence further revealed that five key terrorist leaders were either killed or severely injured in the strikes. The terrorists commanders believed to have been present at the location during the operation include Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki, along with over 35 other foot soldiers.”
Gabkwet noted that before the operation, intelligence revealed that terrorists had migrated to the area.
He said, “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.
“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.
“Battle Damage Assessment after the strikes revealed that several pieces of equipment, vehicles, water vessels and a suspected medical dispensary were obliterated by the strikes.”
The Nigerian Air Force assured its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in maintaining peace and security in the region.
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