In a decisive operation, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dealt a significant blow to terrorist activities in Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State. Airstrikes conducted on November 16, 2024, by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA successfully destroyed the residence and arms depot of Mallam Saleh, a notorious bandit kingpin and loyalist of Dogo Gide.
The operation targeted Saleh’s stronghold in Palele, a location that had served as a hub for attacks, abductions, and extortion, terrorizing vulnerable communities in the region.
NAF officials revealed that Saleh’s movements had been closely monitored, with intelligence efforts focused on dismantling his network.
During the operation, NAF aircraft observed terrorists on motorcycles within the target area. Precise airstrikes obliterated the arms depot, triggering a secondary explosion that confirmed the destruction of a significant munitions cache. The operation also neutralized several terrorists, delivering a severe blow to their capabilities.
“This mission is part of the Nigerian Air Force’s logistics strangulation strategy to decimate terrorist strongholds and restore peace to affected regions,” said Air Commodore Olusola F. Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters.
He added that the mission aligns with the broader goal of safeguarding innocent lives and ensuring national security.
The NAF emphasized its ongoing collaboration with surface forces to sustain dominance through constant patrols, situational awareness, and targeted interdictions.
The success of this operation is expected to significantly degrade the operational capacity of terrorist elements in Niger State.
As efforts to combat terrorism intensify, the NAF reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens and restoring stability to affected communities.
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