Airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft have killed 28 terrorists in the Bassa community in Shiroro local government area of Niger State.
The terrorists were killed on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, after intelligence about the planned ambush by the suspected terrorists on the DSS assets in the LGA.
This was confirmed by the Deputy Director Information and Public Relations, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, in a statement on Thursday, September 12.
Ali said the terrorists were engaged after receipt of a request for air support from ground forces.
He said: “Upon arrival, Nigerian Air Force (NAF) air assets observed over 100 terrorists engaging friendly forces in a fierce firefight. After confirming the positions of friendly troops, the NAF conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ positions.
“The strikes were devastating, neutralizing dozens of terrorists in successive passes. As of the time of reporting, 28 bodies had been recovered from the target area, with several more terrorists, weapons, and burnt motorcycles still being cleared.”
According to Ali, the successful operation underscores the NAF’s “commitment to protecting the nation and supporting our sister services and other security agencies in combating banditry, terrorism, insurgency and all other forms of criminality.”
He assured that NAF’s would continue to conduct air operations, “both independently and in collaboration with surface forces,” to eliminate all threats to the peace, prosperity and security of the country.
In May, Edward Gabkwet, the NAF spokesperson, said many terrorists were killed during airstrikes conducted in Allawa village, Shiroro LGA of Niger state.