The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that airstrikes by its fighter jets have either killed or severely injured five senior terrorist commanders and 35 militants in Borno State.
According to a statement from NAF spokesperson Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the strikes were carried out on August 18, 2024, targeting the Arina area in Southern Tumbuns.
“In a decisive effort to further weaken the activities of the remnant of terrorists operating in the Northeast while also protecting innocent civilians and our troops, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai successfully executed an air interdiction mission on August 16, 2024,” Gabkwet stated.
The Nigerian Air Force has identified the commanders targeted in the recent airstrikes as Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (also known as Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki. These leaders, along with their fighters, were reportedly present at the site during the operation.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet elaborated that the airstrikes were conducted based on intelligence reports about a terrorist influx into the Arina area from neighboring regions.
“Intelligence revealed a covert movement of terrorists into the area. Confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions on August 12 and 15 identified numerous terrorists and their hidden structures,” he stated.
The operation effectively targeted the identified positions, leading to the destruction of several terrorist structures, vehicles, and other assets.
“Battle Damage Assessment after the strikes revealed that several pieces of equipment, vehicles, water vessels, and a suspected medical dispensary were obliterated,” Gabkwet added.
He concluded by emphasizing that this operation has significantly weakened the operational capacity of the remaining terrorists in the region.
“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,” he asserted.