By Halimah Olamide
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch on Wednesday, eliminated no fewer than 28 terrorists in strikes at Bassa, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger.
This was contained in a statement by the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Capt. Kabiru Ali, on Thursday in Abuja.
Ali said the operation was targeted at the criminal elements terrorising communities in the Local Government Area.
He said the successful air interdiction mission was conducted on Sept. 11, upon receipt of a request for air support from friendly forces in the area.
According to him, the NAF air assets observed over 100 terrorists engaging friendly forces in a fierce firefight.
“After confirming the positions of friendly troops, the NAF conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ positions.
“The strikes were devastating, neutralizing dozens of terrorists in successive passes.
“As of the time of reporting, 28 bodies had been recovered from the target area, with several more terrorists, weapons, and burnt motorcycles still being cleared,” he said.
Ali said the successful operation underscored the NAF’s commitment to protecting the nation and supporting sister services and other security agencies in combating banditry, terrorism, insurgency and all other forms of criminality.
“Nigerians can be assured that NAF will continue to conduct air operations, both independently and in collaboration with surface forces.
“This is to eliminate all threats to the peace, prosperity and security of our great nation,” he said.