By Ken Afor
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said that Operation Hadarin Kai (OPHK) air forces conducted a precise airstrike targeting ISWAP terrorist hideouts, resulting in the elimination of more than 30 fighters within Kolleram village along the shores of Lake Chad.
This was disclosed in a statement by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), on Tuesday in Abuja.
Gabkwet emphasized that the airstrikes carried out on April 13 had a major impact in the fight against terrorism in the North-East region. He highlighted the operation’s substantial success, citing a Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) conducted after the strike, which confirmed the elimination of over 30 terrorists.
Notably, the neutralized individuals included several senior commanders of the insurgents, 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, which 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 neutralising 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 on the Lake Chad flank and represent a crucial step forward in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria,” he said.
