The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has reported a significant blow to terrorists’ elements in Niger State following airstrikes conducted in Allawa village, Shiroro Local Government Area.
According to Edward Gabkwet, NAF spokesperson, the airstrikes were carried out by the air component of Operation Whirl Punch on May 3.
The operation targeted terrorists who had attacked a primary school in Allawa and invaded Galapai village on May 1.
Gabkwet stated, “Similar airstrikes were conducted the same day, 3 May 2024, when the air component of Operation Whirl Punch conducted pre-emptive air strikes over terrorists hibernating in Allawa village, near Shiroro in Niger State.”
He explained that the mission was based on credible intelligence indicating the presence of terrorists in the area following the evacuation of locals for their safety.
The statement continued, “These terrorists had, on 1 May 2024, stormed the deserted Allawa community in Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA) and torched the Central Primary School.
“In the evening of the same day, another group of terrorists also arrived at the location, wielding AK-47/49 rifles after invading Galapai village in Galadima Kogo district of the same LGA.
“Accordingly, to prevent further occupation as well as pursue the terrorists from the location, the air component scrambled a formation of its platforms to attack the location.
“On arrival at the location, several terrorists were sighted and engaged effectively.”
Gabkwet said the troops also raided Allawa forest and destroyed a stockpile of arms hidden in the forest by the terrorists.
He said, in another operation, the troops conducted an airstrike at Chinene in the Mandara mountains, located along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
The operation resulted in the neutralization of several terrorists and the destruction of their weapons and logistics.
Gabkwet further noted, “Within the same location, 7-gun trucks were also observed parked under trees.
“Accordingly, air interdiction was authorised and conducted over the assembly area and tree coverings to decimate the terrorists and destroy their weapons and mobility.
“After the strike, battle damage assessment footages received later revealed that the strikes were successful as several terrorists were neutralised and logistics destroyed.”