NAF air strikes kill over 10 ISWAP fighters in north-east
Missile strikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have reportedly killed more than 10 terrorists linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in coordinated operations across parts of Borno and Yobe states, including the Timbuktu Triangle.
The strikes were carried out on Tuesday by the air component of Operation Hadin Kai, following real-time intelligence gathered through unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
According to Zagazola Makama, a publication focused on the Lake Chad region, aerial surveillance first detected about 10 ISWAP fighters armed with motorcycles and bicycles, taking cover under a large, thick tree along the Ambia Tasha, Ambia Sheruri, Ambia Turo and Shangamaru axis in Yobe State. The report said there were indications that additional fighters were concealed within a nearby canopy.
After authorisation was granted, the air component reportedly engaged the targets with precision-guided munitions, destroying terrorist assets, including motorcycles.
Zagazola Makama said post-strike assessments confirmed heavy casualties, with only one individual observed fleeing the impact zone.
The publication added that the operation forms part of sustained efforts to restrict ISWAP’s movement, disrupt its supply routes and protect communities in the North-east.
Military sources said aerial surveillance and targeted air strikes, conducted in close coordination with ground troops, would continue until remaining threats are neutralised.
Earlier this month, similar air operations across parts of the North-east and North-west reportedly destroyed terrorist hideouts, eliminated weapons and logistics, and killed several fighters.
In a statement, Ehimen Ejodame, director of public relations and information at NAF headquarters, said the operations were conducted between January 1 and 2 by joint task forces under Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fasan Yamma Sector 2.
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