The Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch has killed 28 terrorists in Shiroro local government area of Niger State.
A statement by the deputy director of public relations and information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, said the decisive air interdiction was conducted on September 11, 2024.
He said the mission targeted terrorists in Bassa upon receipt of a request for air support from friendly forces in the area.
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, neutralising 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,” he said.
The statement said the successful operation underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to protecting the nation and supporting sister services and other security agencies in combating banditry, terrorism, insurgency and all other forms of criminality.
“Nigerians can be assured that NAF will continue to conduct air operations, both independently and in collaboration with surface forces, to eliminate all threats to the peace, prosperity and security of our great nation,” he said.
