Airstrikes kill several terrorists, disrupt bandit movements in Niger, Kaduna
The Nigerian Army has announced that troops from the Joint Task Force North West, operating under FANSAN YAMMA, have successfully neutralised numerous terrorists and thwarted attempted movements of bandits during intelligence-driven air operations in Niger and Kaduna states.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Army indicated that these operations, conducted by the Air Component on June 29, inflicted significant damage on terrorists and armed bandits by targeting their movements within the Joint Operations Area.
The operation in the Dogon Dawa axis of Shiroro Local Government Area in Niger State was initiated based on credible intelligence, supported by human intelligence sources, which indicated that over 200 suspected terrorists were converging on motorcycles.
Aerial surveillance conducted by the Army confirmed the presence of armed terrorists moving in groups, leading to the identification of a large concentration of motorcycles at a suspected refuelling point.
The Army stated, "Acting on credible intelligence, corroborated by human intelligence sources, indicating the convergence of over 200 suspected terrorists on motorcycles in the Dogon Dawa axis of Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, the Air Component executed a precision airstrike against the terrorists."
The statement further noted, "Battle Damage Assessment confirmed that several terrorists were neutralised, while others were seen fleeing with injuries towards the Kurugin Maidawa axis."
The Army highlighted that the successful strike significantly disrupted the terrorists' operations, diminished their operational capabilities, and prevented them from regrouping for future attacks.
Additionally, the statement mentioned that during a separate Armed Reconnaissance mission in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, the Air Component acted on intelligence indicating that armed bandits were preparing to launch reprisal attacks against troops following recent clearance operations in the Womba general area.
The Air Component reported that it intercepted three motorcycles carrying suspected bandits heading towards the Kamuku Forest after the suspects attempted to avoid detection upon noticing the aircraft, effectively disrupting their movement.
The Army further stated that subsequent reconnaissance, carried out in close collaboration with ground troops, found no additional suspicious activity in the area.
They emphasized that these successful operations highlight the effectiveness of the Joint Task Force’s coordinated air and ground efforts in maintaining pressure on terrorist and bandit networks throughout the North-West.
The statement concluded, "The Theatre Commander praises the professionalism and cooperation exhibited by both the Air and Land Components and assures the public that Operation FANSAN YAMMA will persist in its offensive operations until all terrorist and bandit strongholds are eradicated and enduring peace and security are restored across the theatre."
