The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Monday said its aircraft under the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji have eliminated over 80 terrorists while 45 of their motorcycles were also destroyed.
According to a statement by NAF Spokesperson, AVM Edward Gabkwet, “in one of such strikes carried out on the night of 15 June 2024, over 80 terrorists hibernating at a hideout location at Gidan Kare Village of Ruwan Godiya Ward in Faskare Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State were confirmed eliminated and 45 motorcycles burnt.
“The strikes became necessary following intelligence that terrorists numbering over 100 were reported burning houses at a settlement about 5 kms away from Gidan Kare Village. Overhead the Village at about 8.30pm, several houses were observed to be on fire with the entire Village in pandemonium.
“Moments later, 12 motor cycles were seen departing the Village and trailed along a footpath out of the village to a location near Gidan Kare Village and Kuka Shidda Camp, where they joined up with a large number of their cohorts.
“Other terrorists were also observed arriving the location from different directions, an indication that the location was a massing up point with the terrorists likely planning to further attack nearby villages.
“Having been presented such a rare opportunity, authorization was sought, obtained and the location was immediately struck at exactly 9:40pm, with over 80 terrorists confirmed eliminated and about 45 motorcycles burnt down, while few surviving terrorists were observed fleeing or limping off.
“Further intelligence received after the strike also revealed that the terrorists were closely linked with notorious terrorists kingpin Yusuf Yellow and his close associate Rabe Imani. These strikes, along with others before now, have no doubt disrupted terrorists activities in the area.
“Meanwhile, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has commended the efforts of the Air Component as well as other security agencies in diminishing the capabilities of terrorist elements in the Northwest.
“He made this known earlier today, 17 June 2024, when he fête the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji at 213 Forward Operating Base, Katsina.
“According to the CAS, “As we continue the fight against insurgency and banditry bedeviling our dear nation, I want to commend and appreciate your resoluteness and gallantry.” He also stated that the successes by the Air Component Operation HADARIN DAJI in synergy with other security agencies have continued to contribute to security within the region. He then urged them not to relent in their efforts and dedication to the fight against terrorism and all forms of criminality in Nigeria.
“Earlier, Marshal Abubakar had commissioned some airfield facilities such as the new taxiway link, operations and engineering building, and the new sports complex. Specifically, the airfield facilities commissioned will no doubt ensure air operations, especially within the Northwest, are more effective and efficient.”