Nigerian Air Force strike neutralises ‘scores of bandits’ in Zamfara-Kebbi axis
Nigerian Air Force strikes have reportedly neutralised scores of terrorists advancing from Zamfara State towards Kebbi State to attack communities.
The operation was conducted by the air component of Operation Fansan Yamma, The Cable reports.
Citing Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, The Cable disclosed that the operation was conducted on August 10 following intelligence reports that a large group of bandits had emerged from the Sangeko Gap in Zamfara and moved towards Makuku in Kebbi State.
The publication said the bandits, estimated at more than 200 fighters, were operating in three groups and moving on motorcycles towards the community.
Makama reported that security forces, including troops of the Nigerian Army and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), mobilised to contain the threat, leading to intense engagements with the armed group.
The publication reported that the air component subsequently launched an air interdiction mission against the advancing bandits.
Makama noted that the air strikes were carefully executed on identified concentrations of the criminals, killing scores of them and disrupting their planned movement into the area.
The aerial intervention also provided critical support to ground forces engaged in the operation and helped prevent the bandits from gaining access to vulnerable communities.
The publication said residents of affected communities commenced precautionary evacuation as security forces intensified efforts to contain the situation and prevent further movement of the bandits.
Makama reported that further battle-damage assessment was ongoing to determine the full extent of the casualties inflicted on the criminal elements.
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