The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch and Hadarin Daji has successfully eliminated terrorists’ enclaves in Kaduna and Katsina States, resulting in the deaths of numerous terrorists.
In a statement released on Tuesday by AVM Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF, the airstrikes targeted a notorious terrorist stronghold in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State on May 30 and 31.
The strikes were directed at the base of the infamous terrorist leader, Buharinyadi, located in the Bula Forest area of Giwa LGA.
The operation followed detailed Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) that revealed the presence of armed terrorists and several motorcycles hidden under a large tree.
The ISR confirmed that these terrorists were responsible for many attacks and kidnappings across Birnin Gwari, Igabi, and Giwa LGAs. Consequently, NAF dispatched air assets to strike the location, successfully neutralising scores of terrorists and destroying their equipment.
A follow-up strike was conducted after intelligence indicated that some surviving terrorists had relocated 500 meters west of the initial target.
The subsequent strike led to further neutralisation of terrorists and destruction of their hideouts.
Similarly, on June 2, the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji carried out airstrikes on Zango Hill in Kankara LGA of Katsina State.
Intelligence identified this location as a base for terrorist kingpin Alhaji Iliya and his followers. The airstrike decimated the terrorists, destroyed their weapons, and set their structures ablaze.
The NAF revealed that it would continue to dominate the battle space in collaboration with surface forces, using extensive situational awareness, constant patrols, and targeted strikes on terrorists’ safe havens.
Gabkwet also highlighted the importance of a whole-of-society approach in minimising the threats posed by criminal elements.
