Airstrikes executed by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have eliminated scores of terrorists, destroyed their critical arms depot and the residence of notorious kingpin, Mallam Saleh in Palele, Shiroro local government area of Niger State.
Saleh is a loyalist of another notorious terrorist, Dogo Gide.
NAF spokesman, Air Cdre Olusola Akinboyewa in a statement on Monday said the airstrikes were conducted by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA on 16 November, 2024.
Air Cdre Akinboyewa said Saleh’s reign of terror had plagued vulnerable communities in Shiroro, with attacks, abductions and extortion leaving them in a trail of fear.
He however, said the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA had been tracking Saleh’s movements, gathering crucial intelligence to dismantle his operations.
“As NAF aircraft swooped in, terrorists on motorcycles were spotted in the target area.
“With swift and precise action, the NAF assets unleashed devastating strikes, obliterating the weapons cache and dealing a crushing blow to the terrorists. A secondary explosion confirmed the destruction of the munitions, crippling Saleh’s capabilities,” he said.
The Director said airstrike is part of the NAF’s logistics strangulation strategy, aimed at decimating terrorist strongholds and restoring peace to the region.
He assured that NAF collaboration with surface forces will maintain dominance through constant patrols, situational awareness and targeted interdictions.
“The impact of this mission will be significant, degrading the terrorists’ operational capabilities and protecting innocent lives,” he added.
