The Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has eliminated no fewer than 28 terrorists in Bassa, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
This was stated in a release made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Thursday by the Deputy Director of NAF Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali.
According to the statement, the operation, conducted on Wednesday, targeted criminals terrorizing communities in the Local Government Area.
The successful air interdiction mission was carried out upon receiving a request for air support from friendly forces in the area.
The statement noted that NAF air assets observed over 100 terrorists engaging friendly forces in a fierce firefight.
It further stated, “After confirming the positions of friendly troops, the NAF conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ positions. The strikes were devastating, neutralizing dozens of terrorists in successive passes.
“As of the time of reporting, 28 bodies had been recovered from the target area, with several more terrorists, weapons, and burnt motorcycles still being cleared.”
The statement emphasized that the operation underscored the NAF’s commitment to protecting the nation and supporting sister services and other security agencies in combating banditry, terrorism, insurgency, and all other forms of criminality.
It concluded, “Nigerians can be assured that the NAF will continue to conduct air operations, both independently and in collaboration with surface forces, to eliminate all threats to the peace, prosperity, and security of our great nation.”
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