NAF jets pound terrorists in Niger: More than 28 dead
Terrorists killed in aerial bombardment
Published By: Ayorinde Oluokun
By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it eliminated no fewer than 28 terrorists in strikes at Bassa area of Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State on Wednesday.
According to NAF, the air strikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch was targeted at the criminal elements terrorising communities in the Local Government Area.
Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Capt. Kabiru Ali who revealed this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja added that the successful air interdiction mission was conducted 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.
- Deadly assault repelled: DSS, NAF neutralise 28 bandits in Niger
- NAF airstrikes kill terrorists near Lake Chad
- NAF jets strike 5 notorious terrorist commanders, 35 fighters dead in Borno
“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.
(NAN)
