The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) component of Operation Whirl Punch has achieved significant success in its ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Kaduna State, eliminating numerous terrorists across various locations.
This development was announced in a statement by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force. He detailed that the operations were conducted on July 12, 2024, targeting a terrorist stronghold led by Alhaji Layi in Kufan Shantu Village, located within Giwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.
According to the statement, the NAF observed and subsequently eliminated several terrorists within Alhaji Layi’s enclave. The operation also led to the destruction of their thatched-roof huts and logistical supplies, which were hidden under dense foliage.
"Several terrorists were observed within the location and were eliminated, while their thatched-roof huts were burnt down. Additionally, their logistics tucked under thick foliage were also destroyed," the statement read.
Following the successful operation in Kufan Shantu, similar airstrikes were carried out on July 13, 2024, targeting terrorist camps within Malum Forest in Igabi LGA. These operations also yielded positive results.
"Similar air strikes conducted on July 13, 2024, over terrorists’ camps situated inside Malum Forest in Igabi LGA also recorded positive outcomes after the targets were acquired and engaged," the statement noted.
The Battle Damage Assessment footage revealed terrorists freely moving around the forest at a compound with zinc-roofed structures. A precision strike was authorized, resulting in the elimination of most of the terrorists.
The success of these operations was attributed to credible human intelligence, coupled with extensive intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. These efforts identified the targeted locations as terrorist enclaves responsible for an ambush on troops at Manini on July 10, 2024.
The statement emphasized the importance of coordinated intelligence in ensuring the success of the operations, noting that the precision strikes were based on accurate and timely information.
The Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with surface forces, is committed to maintaining dominance in the battlespace through extensive situational awareness, regular patrols, and targeted interdiction of terrorists’ safe havens. This strategy is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of the region and its neighboring states.
"The Nigerian Air Force, alongside surface forces, will maintain dominance in the battlespace through extensive situational awareness, regular patrols, and targeted interdiction of terrorists’ safe havens in its Area of Responsibility and neighboring states," the statement concluded.
The operations conducted by the NAF are part of a broader strategy to dismantle terrorist networks and restore peace and stability to Kaduna State and its environs. By targeting key terrorist enclaves and destroying their logistical capabilities, the Nigerian Air Force is playing a crucial role in degrading the operational effectiveness of these groups.
These successful airstrikes not only neutralize immediate threats but also disrupt the terrorists' ability to plan and execute future attacks. This proactive approach is vital in preventing further violence and ensuring the long-term security of the region.
The Nigerian Air Force's commitment to maintaining a high level of situational awareness and operational readiness is evident in its ongoing efforts to patrol and secure the region. Regular surveillance flights and intelligence-gathering missions ensure that any emerging threats are promptly identified and addressed.
The collaboration between the NAF and surface forces, including the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, underscores the importance of a unified approach to counter-terrorism. By working together, these forces can leverage their collective strengths to achieve greater success in their operations.
The recent operations carried out by the Nigerian Air Force in Kaduna State represent a significant victory in the fight against terrorism. Through precise and well-coordinated airstrikes, the NAF has successfully eliminated numerous terrorists and destroyed their logistical bases, significantly weakening their operational capabilities.
As the NAF continues to work alongside surface forces and maintain a robust presence in the region, the people of Kaduna State can be assured of their commitment to ensuring their safety and security. These operations demonstrate the effectiveness of a coordinated and intelligence-driven approach to counter-terrorism, paving the way for a more secure and peaceful future.
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