The preceding week has been marked by significant achievements for the air components of Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) in the Northwest and Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Northeast Nigeria.
Collaborating with the land components and other security agencies, the air forces under these operational theatres, have successfully neutralised terrorist groups, insurgents, and other criminal elements, ensuring enhanced security for innocent citizens in the regions.
In the Northwest, the Air Component of OPHD conducted a series of precise airstrikes on November 1, 2023, in Kankara Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State. The target was the hideout of a notorious terrorist kingpin, Babaru, who has been involved in numerous acts of terrorism and banditry across Kankara and neighboring LGAs.
Notably, Babaru was implicated in the massacre of over 100 residents of Gidan Gari and Yarmai-Yadiya villages in Bakori LGA on February 2, 2023.
The airstrikes successfully destroyed Babaru’s hideout and eliminated several terrorists, although confirmation regarding Babaru’s status is still pending.
Additionally, airstrikes were carried out on the enclave of another terrorist kingpin known as Mai Solar in Maru LGA of Zamfara State. The strikes hit the clusters of enclaves used as hideouts by the kingpin and his cohorts, resulting in a successful operation with several survivors observed fleeing the scene. Confirmation regarding Mai Solar’s status is also awaited.
In the Northeast, precision air strikes conducted by the air component of OPHK on November 3, 2023, led to the elimination of numerous terrorists at their meeting point near Degbawa, a secluded location within the Mandara Mountains in Goza Local Government Area of Borno State.
The strikes were carried out based on actionable intelligence indicating the presence of key terrorist figures and their foot soldiers gathering for a possible meeting. The large number of terrorists at the location raised concerns and necessitated an air interdiction, which proved highly successful in dealing a devastating blow to the terrorists.
Upon assessment, it was confirmed that several terrorists were eliminated in the operation.
Multiple sources revealed that the location chosen by the terrorists was carefully selected to avoid detection, particularly by Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft. However, the outcome of the strike demonstrated the terrorists’ miscalculation as their plans were detected, leading to the success of the air operation.
Their sources also highlighted that this strike dealt a significant setback to the terrorists who have recently faced continuous pressure from both the air and land components of OPHK. There were strong indications that these terrorists were responsible for the recent attack on locals in Geidam on October 31, 2023, and had planned to review the attack and strategize for future attacks on innocent civilians and other vulnerable targets.
The successful airstrikes in both the Northwest and Northeast regions of Nigeria highlight the commitment and effectiveness of the military’s efforts in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of citizens.
These operations serve as a reminder of the continuous efforts being made to rid the country of terrorist activities and maintain security and stability in affected regions.
