NAF BOMB ATTACKERS OF SECURITY PERSONNEL IN NIGER
In the Niger State local government area of Shiroro, six militants who attacked other security officers were slain by airstrikes during Operation.
There were reports that the more than a hundred terrorists engaged in a gunfight with operatives from different security organizations.
The Nigerian Air Force’s Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, stated in a statement on Thursday that the operators asked for aerial assistance during the assault.
Ali reported that during the operation on Wednesday, 28 terrorists’ remains had been found thus far; however, numerous other terrorists, weapons, and burned motorcycles remained to be removed.
He said, “In a decisive operation against criminal elements terrorizing communities in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, the Air Component of Operation WHIRL PUNCH conducted a highly successful air interdiction mission on 11 September 2024.
“The mission targeted terrorists in Bassa, upon receipt of a request for air support from friendly forces in the area.
“Upon arrival, Nigerian Air Force 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.”
Ali said, “This successful operation underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to protecting the nation and supporting our 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, to eliminate all threats to the peace, prosperity and security of our great nation.”
Shiroro Local Government in Niger State has reportedly been a hub for banditry activity.
Following many attacks on troops by bandits within the local authority, the military withdrew its forces from the region.