In a concerted effort to combat terrorism and economic sabotage activities, the Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch targeted terrorists' hideouts in Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State and economic saboteurs in the Niger Delta region. The operations resulted in significant successes, as announced by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the Director of NAF Public Relations and Information.
In Shiroro LGA, the air strikes focused on the stronghold of notorious terrorist kingpin, Mallam Umar, and several other commanders situated in the Alawa Forest area. Extensive Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations preceded the strikes, identifying clusters of huts within compounds amidst dense vegetation, with armed terrorists present in the vicinity. The strikes, prompted by intelligence confirming the terrorists' responsibility for recent attacks on ground troops and multiple Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) incidents, led to the neutralization of several terrorists and the destruction of their hideouts.
Similarly, in the Niger Delta region, air strikes targeted economic saboteurs engaged in illegal refining activities and oil bunkering. Surveillance over several areas revealed numerous illegal refining sites, which were effectively destroyed by the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe. Additionally, a Cotonou boat loaded with crude oil product was observed and subsequently attacked and destroyed.
Overall, the operations have significantly degraded the capabilities of terrorist elements in the Northwest and oil thieves in the Niger Delta region. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) remains committed to conducting air operations in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure the safety and security of the nation and its citizens. Continuous situational awareness, patrols, and targeted interdiction of criminals' safe havens will be maintained to uphold national security.
