NAF Cripples Terrorist Networks Across Timbuktu Triangle, Mandara Mountains, Katsina Forest
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has sustained a relentless air interdiction campaign across key terrorist enclaves in the North-East and North-West, crippling insurgent networks and denying them safe havens in the Timbuktu Triangle, Mandara Mountains, and forested areas of Katsina State.
The coordinated, intelligence-led operations were executed between 1 and 2 January 2026 in support of joint task forces under Operations HADIN KAI and FASAN YAMMA Sector 2.
Acting on actionable intelligence on terrorist movements, logistics, and attack planning, NAF air assets were deployed to strike identified hideouts, assembly points, and movement corridors, significantly degrading the operational capacity of the terrorists.
In the North-East theatre, PRNigeria gathered that the precision air strikes were conducted against deeply concealed terrorist enclaves at Abirma and Chiralia within the notorious Timbuktu Triangle.
Persistent surveillance had confirmed the presence of active facilities linked to improvised explosive device production and coordinated attack planning. The strikes resulted in the complete destruction of targeted structures, with multiple secondary explosions observed, indicating the neutralisation of explosive stockpiles and critical logistics.
Read Also:
Further interdiction missions were carried out at Guva in the Mandara Mountains, where additional terrorist storage and coordination nodes were successfully dismantled. These actions disrupted regrouping efforts and curtailed the ability of the terrorists to resupply or launch attacks during the festive period and beyond.
Simultaneously, the air campaign was extended to the North-West, with a decisive interdiction mission around Karaduwa Giginya Na in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. Terrorist elements were tracked while moving in large motorcycle convoys and engaged at a forested convergence point. Post-strike assessments and corroborated local feedback confirmed the neutralisation of several terrorists, the destruction of multiple motorcycles, and the elimination of assorted weapons.
The sustained multi-theatre operations underscore the Nigerian Air Force’s growing airpower dominance, rapid strike capability, and unwavering resolve to systematically dismantle terrorist networks across the country. The Service reaffirmed that precision, persistence, and professionalism will continue to guide air operations in support of troops on the ground.
The Nigerian Air Force assured Nigerians of its commitment to protecting civilians, denying terrorists freedom of movement and sanctuary, and supporting national efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across all theatres of operation.
The airstrikes was confirmed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
By PRNigeria
