The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has neutralised five terrorist commanders alongside more than 35-foot soldiers in air interdictions in Arina, Southern Tumbuns of Borno State.

The NAF disclosed this in a statement issued by its Director of Public Relations and Information, AVN Edward Gabkwet, on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

Gabkwet said the terrorist commanders killed in the air strikes on August 16 include Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (a.k.a Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki.

He said the air interdiction by NAF’s Operation ‘Hadin Kai’  was a decisive effort to further weaken the activities of remnants of terrorists operating in the Northeast, while also protecting innocent civilians and their own troops.

Gabkwet noted that intelligence revealed the clandestine migration of terrorists into the area from neighbouring locations prior to the mission.

Troops kill Boko Haram commander, others in Borno

The NAF spokesman stated: “Confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions further conducted on August 12 and August 15 identified numerous terrorists and active structures concealed under trees.

“Consequently, coordinated airstrikes were launched over the location, and the targets successfully engaged, resulting in the neutralisation of several terrorists and the destruction of their structures.

“Battle Damage Assessment after the strikes revealed that several equipment, vehicles, water vessels, and a suspected medical dispensary were obliterated by the strikes.

“Additionally, credible intelligence further revealed that five key terrorist leaders were either killed or severely injured in the strike.

“This operation, no doubt, has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the few remaining terrorists in the region.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to supporting the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in safeguarding the region and ensuring peace and security prevail.”

The Star