The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has killed five key terrorist commanders and more than 35 fighters in Borno State.
The successful air interdictions took place in Arina, Southern Tumbuns.
This was revealed in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), AVN Edward Gabkwet, on Wednesday in Abuja.
Gabkwet disclosed that the airstrikes on August 16 targeted and eliminated terrorist commanders including Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (a.k.a Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki.
He emphasized that the operation aimed to further weaken the remnants of terrorist activities in the Northeast while safeguarding civilians and military personnel.
According to him, intelligence had previously identified the movement of terrorists into the area from neighboring locations.
“Confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions were further conducted on Aug. 12 and Aug. 15, identified numerous terrorists and active structures concealed under trees,” he stated.
Gabkwet further explained that coordinated airstrikes were executed over the location, leading to the neutralization of several terrorists and the destruction of their equipment, vehicles, water vessels, and a suspected medical dispensary.
He added that the operation had significantly degraded 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 said.