Felicia Udeji, Reporting
The Nigerian Airforce on Tuesday said it’s Air component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) at the weekend successfully neutralised over 30 terrorists, including two wanted terrorist’s kingpin’s, Ali Dawud and Bakurah Fallujah in Borno state.
Director of NAF Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet said the air strikes which formed a decisive blow in the fight against terrorism, were executed on the hideouts of ISWAP terrorists nestled within Kolleram village along the shores of Lake Chad.
According to him, “The operation, conducted on 13 April 2024, yielded significant success as the Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) post-strike conducted revealed the neutralisation of over 30 terrorists.
“Among those neutralised were some senior commanders such as Ali Dawud, Bakura Fallujah, and Mallam Ari.
“Additionally, numerous vehicles, motorcycles, and logistical assets were destroyed, severely hampering the terrorists’ operational capabilities.
“Intelligence gathered after the air strike further indicated that the aerial bombardment effectively obliterated a key facility within the Kolleram enclave.
“This facility served as a hub for the terrorists’ food processing activities, including grinding machines.
“The success of these airstrikes underscores NAF’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of Nigerian citizens.
“By neutralizing key terrorist figures and destroying their logistical infrastructure, the operation has significantly degraded the capabilities of the ISWAP group in the region.
“These airstrikes complement the ongoing efforts of ground forces in the Lake Chad flank and represent a crucial step forward in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria.”