NAF airstrikes ‘kill several terrorists’ in Niger state
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reportedly killed several bandits during airstrikes conducted in the Alawa Forest area of Shiroro LGA, in Niger state.
Zagazola Makama, a counterinsurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, reports that the NAF airstrikes targeted key JAS leaders, including Saddiku, Umar Taraba, and Kabiru Doctor, who were believed to be residing in the area.
Makama quoted intelligence sources as saying strikes destroyed multiple weapons, motorcycles, and technical vehicles and inflicted heavy losses on the insurgents.
The publication added that sustained airstrikes have forced the bandits to flee Alawa, noting that they are relocating to Birnin Gwari LGA in Kaduna.
Makama said Alawa forest has long been suspected as a hideout for some terrorist factions, including elements of the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS).
“Sources indicated that Birnin Gwari, previously recognised as a stronghold for Ansaru elements aiming to establish a caliphate, will likely serve as the focus for future air missions to maintain operational momentum against insurgent threats,” the publication said.
The publication added that the operation’s results are under review, noting that more information will be released as the assessment progresses.
