The Nigerian Air Force says more than 15 terrorists have been killed in a fresh operation targeting insurgent hideouts inside the Sambisa Forest in Borno State.
According to a statement on Thursday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the strikes were carried out on September 3 by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai.
He explained that intelligence and surveillance had revealed an enclave west of Zuwa being used by fighters and commanders linked to recent attacks around Bitta in Gwoza Local Government Area.
“The Nigerian Air Force, through the Air Component under the Joint Task Force North-East of Operation Hadin Kai, has once again demonstrated its precision, reach, and resolve in the fight against terrorism,” Ejodame said.
He added, “Acting on credible intelligence and confirmatory surveillance, the mission targeted hideouts harbouring fighters and commanders responsible for recent hostilities around Bitta. The strikes proved devastating, neutralising over 15 terrorists and demolishing key structures critical to their operations.”
The statement further stressed that “every successful strike brings Nigeria one step closer to lasting peace,” noting that the Sambisa area has long served as a base for Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.
The operation also destroyed makeshift structures used by the insurgents, a move the Air Force said would further weaken their ability to plan and launch attacks.
Military operations in the North-East have continued in recent months as security forces push to disrupt terrorist networks that have displaced millions of people and devastated local communities since the insurgency began in 2009.
