Nigerian Air Force Takes Down Over 18 Terrorists in Borno

The Nigerian military announced that their air operations under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have killed more than 18 terrorists and destroyed their supply bases in Borno State.

This was shared in a statement by Mohammed Goni, the spokesperson for the task force.

Captain Goni explained that the operation took place early Friday morning at Tumbunma Baba in the Tumbuns area of the state.

He mentioned that the operation was carried out alongside ground troops from Sector 1 of the task force, using Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) along with attack platforms.

The spokesperson said they received reliable intelligence over several weeks about important terrorist figures in the area, which was being used as a meeting point and supply base.

The intelligence was confirmed through surveillance by the theatre command that started on Wednesday, 9 September.

This surveillance reportedly revealed several terrorist structures and supply points within the island area.

"After confirming the targets, the air platforms engaged the identified locations with precise munitions," Captain Goni stated.

He added that ground troops were positioned at possible escape routes to stop the terrorists from fleeing and to engage them directly.

According to the military spokesperson, the air strikes destroyed the targeted structures and "neutralised over 18 terrorist elements."

He noted that the operation disrupted the terrorists' supply lines and weakened their ability to use the area as a support base.

A review after the strikes showed an estimated 85 percent success in meeting the operation’s goals, according to the military.

Captain Goni stated that the operation highlighted the success of intelligence-led missions, timely ISR confirmation, and teamwork between air and ground forces.

"By cooperating with all security agencies and stakeholders, OPHK will keep conducting intelligence-driven operations to prevent terrorists from operating, regrouping, or setting up supply bases in the area," he said.

The military spokesperson encouraged the public to stay alert and share timely and credible information with security agencies to help identify and stop terrorist activities in the North-east.