The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) successfully eliminated numerous Boko Haram/Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants through precision airstrikes near Lake Chad’s outskirts in Borno.
These airstrikes left the terrorists’ secret strongholds in ruins, obliterating both their infrastructure and critical supply centres.
Responding to the confirmed threat posed by terrorist activities to both military installations and the safety of law-abiding Nigerian residents, airstrikes were conducted on Tumbun Fulani and Tumbun Shitu from September 27 to September 30.
At Tumbun Fulani, terrorists were observed loading containers into two gun trucks that were expertly concealed beneath shrubs.
In light of this development, NAF aircraft were urgently launched to interdict the location, believed to be a pivotal logistics centre.
After the airstrike, a Battle Damage Assessment revealed the successful neutralisation of several terrorists and the complete destruction of the gun trucks.
Read also: Niger: Ousted President Bazoum Moves To Sue Coup Plotters
In the same vein, airstrikes were undertaken at Tumbun Shitu as structures suspected to be terrorist hideouts were detected hidden beneath dense foliage.
The NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, confirmed the airstrikes as a matter of record.
As per the NAF spokesperson, it was noted that three gun trucks carrying terrorists were en route to the location, leading to the imperative decision to carry out the strike.
According to him, the results of the airstrike indicated that several terrorists were eliminated, and the trucks were rendered inoperable.
‘The determination of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to significantly limit the activities of terrorists in the Northeast and indeed other parts of Nigeria remains on course.’
‘Operational gains by the AFN are indicative of improved synergy and cooperation by all security agencies as well as the unwavering support of all Nigerians,’ he stated.
The battle to quell insurgency has been ongoing for several years, with the culprits steadfastly refusing to retreat. This has led to the inhabitable conditions of some areas in the northern region, particularly in Borno state. Consequently, a significant portion of the population has been displaced as they flee from the ruthless terrorists.