In a significant blow to terrorist activities in Borno State, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully conducted airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of five key terrorist commanders and 35 fighters in the Arina area, located in the Southern Tumbuns of the state. The operation was confirmed by NAF spokesman, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Edward Gabkwet, in a statement released on Wednesday, August 21.
The commanders killed in the airstrikes include Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (also known as Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki. The successful mission was carried out on August 16, following intelligence reports that indicated the movement of terrorists into the area from neighboring locations.
AVM Gabkwet detailed the operation, explaining that confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions conducted on August 12 and 15 identified numerous terrorists and their concealed structures under trees. This led to coordinated airstrikes, which neutralized the targets and destroyed several of the terrorists' structures.
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"Battle Damage Assessment after the strikes revealed the obliteration of several equipment, vehicles, water vessels, and a suspected medical dispensary. Additionally, credible intelligence confirmed that five key terrorist leaders were either killed or severely injured in the strike," Gabkwet stated.
He further emphasized that the operation had significantly degraded the operational capacity of the remaining terrorists in the region, marking a critical step in the efforts to restore peace and security in Borno State and the surrounding areas.
The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to supporting the broader efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in safeguarding the region and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
