Suleiman Mustapha, Abuja
Five key terrorist commanders alongside more than 35-foot soldiers have been killed in an air strike in Borno on August 16.
The raid was carried out by the Air Component of Operation ”Hadin Kai” in Arina, area of the state.
This was contained in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), AVN Edward Gabkwet, on Wednesday in Abuja.
Gabkwet said the terrorist commanders killed in the air strikes on Aug. 16, include Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (a.k.a Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki.
He said the air strike was carried out to further weaken the activities of remnants of terrorists operating in the Northeast to protecting innocent civilians and operating troops.
The NAF information officer noted that intelligence reports indicate the clandestine migration of terrorists into the area from neighbouring locations prompting the air raid.
He said, “Confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions were further conducted on Aug. 12 and Aug. 15, identifying 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 equipment, vehicles, water vessels and a suspected medical dispensary were obliterated by the strikes.
“Additionally, credible intelligence further revealed that five key terrorist leaders were either killed or severely injured in the strike.
“This operation, no doubt, has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the few remaining terrorists in the region.
He assured that 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.
