By Uzair Adam Imam
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has, in recent operations, made significant success against terrorist elements in Borno and Niger by dealing heavy blows to their infrastructure and mobility.
According to AVM Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for NAF, airstrikes carried out by the air components of Operations Hadin Kai and Whirl Punch have relentlessly targeted terrorist hideouts and disrupted their activities, thereby reducing their capacity to harm ground troops and civilians.
In Borno, on May 3, airstrikes were authorised and executed over Chinene, located within the Mandara Mountain region, where terrorists were observed gathering for a meeting.
The attack, targeting assembly areas and concealed weaponry, resulted in the destruction of seven gun trucks and numerous neutralised terrorists, as confirmed by the Battle Damage Assessment.
Simultaneously, Operation Whirl Punch conducted pre-emptive strikes in Allawa village, near Shiroro town in Niger.
This operation, prompted by credible intelligence indicating terrorist incursion following the evacuation of locals, aimed to thwart their presence and prevent further attacks.
Terrorists, spotted wielding firearms, were effectively engaged upon arrival, with subsequent airstrikes targeting their arms cache hidden within Allawa Forest.
Additionally, NAF conducted airstrikes in the Niger Delta region, specifically North of Arugbana and Temakiri, where illegal refining sites were detected and destroyed.
This action not only curtails the capabilities of oil thieves but also mitigates the risk of pipeline sabotage and environmental damage.
The coordinated efforts of NAF demonstrate a steadfast commitment to combating terrorism and securing vulnerable regions, underscoring the crucial role of air power in safeguarding national security.