In a targeted operation, NAF jets launched an attack on the hideout of a notorious terrorist leader, Alhaji Nashama, situated in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area of Zamfara State as part of Operation Hadarin Daji. The raid, conducted based on credible intelligence reports, resulted in the destruction of Nashama’s enclave and the killing of some of his loyal foot soldiers.
The decision to carry out the airstrikes was made after receiving actionable intelligence that indicated the terrorists were gathering in Tsamre, Birnin Magaji LGA, with intentions to launch attack and steal cattle. Consequently, the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji executed successive passes on the location, eliminating a significant number of terrorists while also obliterating their structures and hideout.
Similar air strikes were also carried out in other areas like Hanawanka in Shiroro LGA and Palele, a village on the borders of Shiroro and Munya LGAs of Niger State. These operations were prompted by intelligence reports suggesting that terrorists were migrating from Katsina and Zamfara states to avoid military pressure in those regions.
In addition to the mentioned strikes, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai conducted an operation in Borno State’s Bama Local Government Area, where they targeted a terrorists’ hideout about 1.5 km East of Arra. The strikes, driven by intelligence, were preceded by careful observation, which revealed suspected terrorists concealing motorcycles and trucks amidst trees and vegetation. As a result, several terrorists were neutralized, and their weapons, equipment, and structures were destroyed.
When approached for confirmation, the Nigerian Air Force Spokesperson, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, acknowledged the operations but refrained from providing further details.