Missile strikes carried out by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have reportedly killed more than 10 terrorists affiliated with the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) during coordinated operations in parts of Borno and Yobe states, including the Timbuktu Triangle.
The strikes were executed on Tuesday by the air component of Operation Hadin Kai, following real-time intelligence provided by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
According to Zagazola Makama, a platform that reports on security developments in the Lake Chad region, aerial surveillance detected about 10 ISWAP fighters armed with motorcycles and bicycles gathered beneath a large tree along the Ambia Tasha, Ambia Sheruri, Ambia Turo, and Shangamaru axis in Yobe State, with indications that additional fighters were concealed within nearby foliage.
After clearance was granted, the air component launched precision munitions at the location, destroying terrorist equipment and motorcycles.
Zagazola reported that post-strike assessments confirmed heavy casualties, noting that only one individual was seen fleeing the strike area.
The publication added that the operation forms part of sustained efforts to limit ISWAP’s mobility, cut off supply routes, and safeguard communities across the North-East.
Military sources disclosed that aerial surveillance and precision airstrikes, conducted in close coordination with ground forces, will continue until remaining threats are neutralised.
Earlier in the month, similar air operations across parts of the North-East and North-West reportedly destroyed terrorist hideouts, wiped out weapons and logistics, and killed several fighters.
In a statement, Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, said the operations were carried out between January 1 and 2 by joint task forces under Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fasan Yamma Sector 2.