August 21, (THEWILL) – An air interdiction in Arina, Southern Tumbuns of Borno State, by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has neutralised five key terrorist commanders and 35 foot soldiers.
In a statement on Wednesday, Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), AVN Edward Gabkwet, said the terrorist commanders, including Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (a.k.a Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki, alongside their foot soldiers were neutralised on August 16, 2024.
According to him, intelligence had revealed the clandestine migration of terrorists into the area from neighbouring locations before the mission.
Gabkwet said, “Confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions were further conducted on Aug. 12 and Aug. 15, which identified numerous terrorists and active structures concealed under trees.
“Consequently, coordinated airstrikes were launched over the location, and the targets successfully engaged, resulting in the neutralisation of several terrorists and the destruction of their structures.
“Battle Damage Assessment after the strikes revealed that equipment, vehicles, water vessels and a suspected medical dispensary were obliterated by the strikes.
“Additionally, credible intelligence further revealed that five key terrorist leaders were either killed or severely injured in the strike.
“This operation, no doubt, has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the few 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.”
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