The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) under Operation FANSAN YAMMA has carried out successful airstrikes neutralizing scores of bandits in Zamfara and Kebbi States, as part of intensified efforts to combat criminality in the Northwest.
In a statement, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, revealed that the air component launched targeted interdiction missions under “Operation FARAUTAR MUJIYA,” an air campaign aimed at dismantling notorious bandit strongholds.
“This focused campaign of air interdiction, nicknamed Operation FARAUTAR MUJIYA, was initiated with high-impact night operations deep within the strongholds of notorious bandits across Zamfara and Kebbi States,” the statement read.
The first wave of strikes was reportedly based on confirmed intelligence pinpointing increased bandit activity in areas dominated by infamous warlords terrorizing local communities.
On November 8, 2024, NAF assets conducted a surprise aerial assault on several camps, including the strategic Sangeko location near the Zamfara-Kebbi border and Ado Aleiro’s fortified enclave around Asola Hill in Tsafe Local Government Area.
“These strikes not only obliterated a major arms depot belonging to the infamous bandit leader, Ado Aleiro, but also neutralized many of his fighters,” the statement detailed, noting that the precision bombardment dealt a significant blow to the criminal networks.
Intelligence reports and Battle Damage Assessments confirmed the powerful impact of the strikes.
During the operation, several kidnapped victims managed to escape captivity amidst the ensuing chaos, finding safety in Kebbi State.
The survivors later provided testimonies of their escape.
The air campaign has reportedly instilled fear among the bandit groups, offering a renewed sense of hope to local residents long affected by banditry.
“These operations underscore the NAF’s increasing agility and resilience, reaffirming the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s relentless dedication to restoring peace and security across the nation,” the statement added, promising further updates on Operation FARAUTAR MUJIYA in the coming days.
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