NAF airstrikes kill over 20 terrorists, destroy gun truck in Borno

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai neutralized over 20 terrorists and destroyed a gun truck in Kukawa, Borno State, on November 25, 2024.

The operations, conducted in two separate airstrikes, also successfully thwarted an attempted attack on military personnel in the area.

According to a statement from NAF, the precision strikes were part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist strongholds and secure the region. The operations underscore the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining territorial integrity amid ongoing insurgent threats.

Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, speaking on the operations, stated:

“In the first mission, NAF fighter jets destroyed a gun truck and neutralized several fighters. The second mission provided close air support to repel an attack on our ground troops.”

The initial operation was based on credible intelligence indicating the presence of a terrorists’ gun truck approximately five kilometers west of Kukawa. NAF fighter jets responded swiftly, acquiring and engaging the target with precision strikes, effectively destroying the gun truck and significantly reducing the terrorists’ operational capacity.

In the second mission, the Air Component responded to a distress call from ground troops under heavy attack by terrorists on motorcycles. NAF air assets arrived promptly and engaged the attackers at various intervals, neutralizing several of them.

“The operation resulted in the recovery of over 20 abandoned motorcycles by ground troops,” Akinboyewa noted. “Our forces are now pursuing wounded and fleeing terrorists to capitalize on the momentum.”

Reaffirming the NAF’s commitment to national security, Akinboyewa added, “The NAF remains dedicated to the collective effort to restore peace and security across the country. We will continue to provide effective airpower in support of our ground forces and other security agencies.”

The successful missions mark another significant step in the ongoing fight against terrorism in Nigeria.