The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch, on Wednesday, eliminated no fewer than 28 terrorists in strikes at Bassa, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger.
This is contained in a statement by the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Capt. Kabiru Ali, on Thursday in Abuja.
Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, had said the air force deployed Tucano jets after intelligence about the planned ambush by the suspected terrorists on the Department of State Services (DSS) facilities in the area.
Makama said the airstrikes killed many bandits, noting that two operatives of the DSS died during the shootout.
“Two DSS personnel paid the supreme price during a gun battle with the bandits,” the publication said.
Ali who was silent on the terrorists’ attack on the DSS assets, said the operation was targeted at the criminal elements terrorising communities in the local government area.
He said the successful air interdiction mission was conducted on Sept. 11, upon receipt of a request for air support from friendly forces in the area.
According to him, the NAF air assets observed over 100 terrorists engaging friendly forces in a fierce firefight.
“After confirming the positions of friendly troops, the NAF conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ positions.
“The strikes were devastating, neutralizing dozens of terrorists in successive passes.
“As of the time of reporting, 28 bodies had been recovered from the target area, with several more terrorists, weapons, and burnt motorcycles still being cleared,” he said.
Ali said the successful operation underscored the NAF’s commitment to protecting the nation and supporting sister services and other security agencies in combating banditry, terrorism, insurgency and all other forms of criminality.
“Nigerians can be assured that NAF will continue to conduct air operations, both independently and in collaboration with surface forces.
“This is to eliminate all threats to the peace, prosperity and security of our great nation,” he said.
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