The High Command of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Sunday said that a series of intense and independent Air Interdiction missions initiated by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s renewed drive to eliminate all forms of criminality in the Northwestern region had resulted in the elimination of scores of notorious terrorists in Zamfara and Kebbi states, respectively.
This was contained in a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Sunday by the Spokesperson of NAF, Air Commodore Olusola F. Akinboyewa.
According to the statement, “This focused campaign of air interdiction, nicknamed Operation FARAUTAR MUJIYA, was kick-started with a series of high-impact night operations deep within the strongholds of notorious bandits across Zamfara and Kebbi States.”
It explained that “the first wave of strikes was launched following confirmed intelligence about increased terrorist activities in areas identified as strongholds of notorious bandit warlords who had long terrorised local communities.”
According to the statement, “On 8 November 2024, using advanced surveillance and precision targeting, NAF assets executed a surprise aerial assault on multiple camps, including the strategic Sangeko location in Zamfara, near the Kebbi border, and Ado Aleiro’s heavily fortified enclave around Asola Hill in Tsafe Local Government Area.”
The statement further stated, “The strikes not only obliterated a major arms depot belonging to the infamous bandit leader, Ado Aleiro, but also neutralised many of his fighters.”
It added that the precision bombardment sent shockwaves through the criminal networks, severely weakening their operational capabilities.
It further explained that “intelligence reports and battle damage assessments confirmed the overwhelming impact of the strikes, which resonated throughout the night.”
It also added that several kidnapped victims, previously held captive by the bandits, were able to escape amidst the chaos, making their way to safety in Kebbi State.
According to the statement, some of the victims who escaped provided testimonies detailing their daring flight to freedom.
The statement pointed out that the air campaign had not only struck fear into the hearts of the bandits but had also provided a sense of hope and assurance for residents who have long suffered under the threat of banditry.
According to the statement, “These operations highlight the NAF’s increasing agility and resilience, reaffirming the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s relentless dedication to restoring peace and security across the nation.”
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