By Abimbola Ogunnaike
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the air component of Operation Hadarin Daji has conducted air strikes on the enclaves of two terrorists in separate attacks in Katsina and Zamfara.
The NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, AVM Edward Gabkwet made this disclosure in a statement issued on Thursday, March 7, 2024.
Gabkwet said that a post-strike battle damage assessment revealed the targeted location engulfed in flames, with a few survivors observed fleeing to safety.
The first strike on Tuesday, 5 March, 2024 targeted terrorist leader, Maudi Maudi, south of Tsaskiya in Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State.
According to NAF image -maker, it was not clear if Maudi Maudi was killed but several of his gang members were eliminated.
“Though several terrorists were eliminated, it remains unconfirmed if Maudi Maudi was among those neutralised,” he added.
NAF spokesperson also said a similar strike was carried out on Wednesday against terrorist kingpin, Alhaji Na-Shama, of Ussu village, Nasarawar Mailayi District in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area of Zamfara.
Gabkwet, who reliable human intelligence confirmed the neutralisation of several of Na-Shama’s associates and the total obliteration of his camp and logistics, added that it is also not confirmed yet if Na-Shama is among the victims.
He said the precision air strikes have been helping to protect civilian lives and destroying terrorists’ bases and logistics.
“This proactive approach aligns with the mission objectives of Operation Hadarin Daji, which majorly focuses on securing the Northwestern region of Nigeria from the menace of terrorism, kidnapping and banditry,” Gabkwet said.
Source: NAN
