The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), through its air component of Operation Whirl Punch, has successfully neutralized several terrorists following their attack on security operatives in the Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The terrorists, numbering over 100, were involved in an intense firefight with other security personnel before air support was called in.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, confirmed that the operation took place on Wednesday. He revealed that 28 bodies of terrorists have been recovered so far, with ongoing clearance efforts uncovering more weapons, burnt motorcycles, and possible casualties.
Ali stated, “This decisive operation targeted terrorists in Bassa after we received a request for air support from friendly forces in the area. NAF assets observed over 100 terrorists engaging our forces, and we conducted precision airstrikes that neutralized dozens of them in successive passes.”
The airstrikes were described as devastating, with the operation continuing to clear the area of any remaining terrorists and their equipment. Group Captain Ali emphasized the NAF’s dedication to collaborating with other security agencies in combatting crime across the country.
“This successful mission demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting the nation and supporting sister services in eliminating banditry, terrorism, and other forms of criminal activity,” he said, reassuring Nigerians that NAF will continue conducting air operations in tandem with ground forces to maintain national security.
Shiroro Local Government Area has been a hotbed of banditry, leading to the previous withdrawal of military forces after numerous attacks on troops. However, the recent airstrikes mark a significant blow to terrorist operations in the region.
