By Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have carried out precision airstrikes against suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on an island in the Lake Chad Basin, killing several insurgents and destroying key logistical assets.
Sources confirmed that the strikes were conducted after a series of air reconnaissance and interdiction mission covering the area between Gamboru and Lake Chad Island, in coordination with a Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) team operating in the theatre.
Zagazola Makama learnt that the Operation, coordinated at the Theartre Command North East Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), targeted a movement of ISWAP fighters.
Sources disclosed that a total of 12 boats, likely used for insurgent logistics, and a number of concealed shelters believed to store weapons, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices were identified.
“The aircraft carried out the first precision strike targeting a suspected IED-making facility. Subsequent assessment revealed insurgents fleeing in disarray,”said the sources.
Another strike was conducted at a location believed to serve as a command post or high-value target site, killing scores of fighters.
“Over 20 insurgents were seen attempting to evacuate casualties and transport wounded fighters, indicating significant disruption to their operational capability,”said the sources.
