NAF Air Strikes Kill Terrorists, Disrupt Planned Attacks in Niger
The Nigerian Air Force said its air strikes have neutralised several terrorists and disrupted planned attacks during a series of intelligence-led operations conducted across parts of Niger State.
The air operations, carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 between May 20 and 23, targeted terrorist elements operating in Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas of the state.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the operations followed credible intelligence on terrorist movements and planned attacks within the affected communities.
He said troops first struck terrorist elements around Tungan Bako and Kasuwan Daji in Rafi LGA on May 20 after intelligence revealed movement and convergence of suspected fighters in the area.
“The Air Component in conjunction with the Nigerian Army Space Command Regiment executed precision air interdiction strikes which successfully neutralised several terrorists and effectively disrupted their operational build-up within the area,” the statement said.
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The Air Force added that on May 21, terrorists travelling on motorcycles and on foot with rustled cattle from Tungunguna towards Uregi were identified and engaged, resulting in their neutralisation and the destruction of their mobility and withdrawal routes.
It further disclosed that close air support was provided to troops battling terrorists at Tungan Makeri on the same day, helping to restore operational advantage to ground forces.
In a continuation of the offensive, the Air Component conducted armed reconnaissance missions over Dogon Dawa and surrounding communities in Mariga LGA on May 23 after receiving reports of planned terrorist attacks on military positions.
According to the statement, terrorist fighters observed making tactical movements in the area were swiftly engaged through precision strikes, leading to the neutralisation of a significant number of them and the disruption of the planned attacks.
“Post-strike assessments confirmed the effectiveness of the missions in degrading terrorist capabilities and denying the terrorists freedom of action within the general area,” the NAF said.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended personnel involved in the operations for their professionalism and precision, assuring Nigerians that the Air Force would sustain aggressive intelligence-driven operations to neutralise terrorist threats and protect lives.
By PRNigeria
