The Nigerian Air Force has said a series of airstrikes on terrorist enclaves in Giwa and Igabi local government areas of Kaduna state, have eliminated several terrorists, and destroyed their logistics.
NAF spokesman, Air Vice Marshall Edward Gabkwet, who disclosed this on Sunday, said the air operations by the air component of OPERATION WHIRL PUNCH have continued unabated with remarkable levels of success despite the weather challenges hampering ongoing efforts to diminish the capabilities of criminal elements in the Northeast.
Gabkwet disclosed that in one of the strikes carried out on Friday, 12 July 2024 at terrorist Alhaji Layi’s enclave, situated in Kufan Shantu village in Giwa local government area of Kaduna state, several terrorists observed within the location were eliminated, while their thatched roof huts were burned down.
“Similar airstrikes conducted on Saturday 13th July 2024 over terrorists’ camps situated inside Malum Forest in Igabi LGA also recorded positive outcomes after the targets were acquired and engaged”, the spokesman said.
Footage from the Battle Damage Assessment shows terrorists freely loitering around the forest at a compound with zinc-roofed structures.
“Subsequently, a precision strike was authorised, which eliminated most of the terrorists”, Gabkwet said.
According to him, the airstrikes were initiated after credible human intelligence and intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance operations identified the targeted locations as enclaves of terrorists responsible for the ambush on troops at Manini on 10 July 2024.
He said further that the NAF, alongside surface forces, will maintain dominance in the battlespace through extensive situational awareness, regular patrols and targeted interdiction of terrorists’ safe havens in its Area of Responsibility and neighbouring states.
“This approach aims to effectively eliminate and eradicate terrorism and other criminal activities in the North West and North Central regions”, Gabkwet said.
