Dozens Killed As Air Force Bombs ISWAP Strongholds In Borno, Yobe

The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has neutralised dozens of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters during coordinated air interdiction missions across parts of Borno and Yobe states, including the notorious Timbuktu Triangle.

According to Security Expert Zagazola Makama, intelligence obtained from the Army’s unmanned aerial vehicles revealed the movement and concentration of ISWAP elements along the Ambia Tasha, Ambia Sheruri, Ambia Turo, and Shangamaru axes in Yobe State on January 13.

It was further revealed that the real-time intelligence, supported by persistent aerial surveillance, enabled the military to identify the terrorists’ routes and assembly points with high precision.

Naija News understands that following the confirmation of the intelligence picture, the Air Component authorised and executed precision airstrikes against identified terrorist assets, including motorcycles used for mobility and logistics.

Initial battle damage assessment showed significant losses inflicted on the terrorists, with more than 10 fighters neutralised during the operation.

Giving details of the strike, sources said the terrorists were sighted gathering under thick vegetation, apparently attempting to conceal themselves from aerial detection.

“We observed about 10 terrorists with motorcycles and bicycles gathered under a large, thick tree, with the likelihood of more concealed within the canopy. We were tasked to engage, and the strike was executed precisely,” the sources said.

They added that post-strike surveillance indicated near-total neutralisation of the group.

“Post-strike observation indicated overwhelming neutralisation, with only one individual seen fleeing the impact area,” the sources said.

The sources reaffirmed the resolve of the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai to maintain sustained pressure on terrorist networks operating in the North-East.

According to them, the ongoing air operations are aimed at restricting the terrorists’ freedom of movement, degrading their logistics and protecting vulnerable communities.

“These operations demonstrate our resolve to deny terrorists freedom of movement, degrade their logistics, and protect communities,” the sources stated.

They added that air surveillance and precision engagement would continue in close coordination with ground forces.

“Air surveillance and precision engagement will continue in close coordination with ground forces until remaining threats are neutralised,” Makama quoted one of the sources as saying.