The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Sunday announced the conduct of “series of intense, independent Air Interdiction missions” in Zamfara and Kebbi States, eliminating scores of terrorists and destroying their “major arms depot.”
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, said in a statement that the airstrikes were aimed at “strongholds of notorious bandit warlords who had long terrorised local communities.”
Air Commodore Akinboyewa noted that the destroyed “major arms depot” belongs to the infamous terrorists’ leader, Ado Aleiro, adding that the “precision bombardment sent shockwaves through the criminal networks, severely weakening their operational capabilities.”
According to the NAF: “The Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA has initiated a series of intense, independent Air Interdiction missions to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s renewed drive to eliminate all forms of criminality in the Northwestern region. This focused campaign of air interdiction, nicknamed Operation FARAUTAR MUJIYA, was kickstarted with a series of high-impact night operations deep within the strongholds of notorious bandits across Zamfara and Kebbi States.
“The first wave of strikes was launched following confirmed intelligence about increased terrorist activities in areas identified as strongholds of notorious bandit warlords who had long terrorised local communities. On 8 November 2024, using advanced surveillance and precision targeting, NAF assets executed a surprise aerial assault on multiple camps, including the strategic Sangeko location in Zamfara, near the Kebbi border, and Ado Aleiro’s heavily fortified enclave around Asola Hill in Tsafe Local Government Area.
“The strikes not only obliterated a major arms depot belonging to the infamous bandit leader, Ado Aleiro, but also neutralised many of his fighters. The precision bombardment sent shockwaves through the criminal networks, severely weakening their operational capabilities.
“Intelligence reports and Battle Damage Assessments confirmed the overwhelming impact of the strikes, which resonated throughout the night. Several kidnapped victims, previously held captive by the bandits, were able to escape amidst the chaos, making their way to safety in Kebbi State. Some of the victims who escaped provided testimonies detailing their daring flight to freedom.
“The air campaign has not only struck fear into the hearts of the bandits, but has also provided a sense of hope and assurance for residents who have long suffered under the threat of banditry. These operations highlight the NAF’s increasing agility and resilience, reaffirming the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s relentless dedication to restoring peace and security across the nation. More updates on Operation FARAUTAR MUJIYA will come in the days ahead.”
