In a determined effort to further diminish the activities of the remaining terrorist elements operating in the Northeast, the Nigerian Air Force’s Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai executed a significant air interdiction mission on August 16, 2024, in Arina, Southern Tumbuns, Borno State. This operation, which aligns with the broader objectives of neutralizing insurgents while safeguarding innocent civilians and military personnel, marks a substantial step in the ongoing battle against terrorism in the region.
The mission was carefully planned and executed following crucial intelligence reports. These reports had indicated the secretive movement of terrorists into the Southern Tumbuns area from surrounding locations, suggesting a strategic regrouping effort by the insurgents. To confirm these movements and gather precise data on enemy positions, Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions were carried out on August 12 and 15, 2024. The ISR missions provided clear evidence of numerous terrorists and active structures that were cleverly concealed under dense tree cover, further emphasizing the terrorists’ intent to evade detection.
Armed with this critical intelligence, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai launched a series of well-coordinated airstrikes targeting the identified terrorist stronghold. The strikes were executed with precision, leading to the neutralization of a significant number of terrorists and the destruction of their hideouts. The mission’s success was evident in the aftermath, as the Battle Damage Assessment revealed extensive damage to the terrorist infrastructure. Several pieces of equipment, vehicles, water vessels, and what is believed to be a medical dispensary used by the terrorists were completely destroyed in the operation.
The impact of this mission extends beyond the immediate destruction of enemy assets. According to the statement released by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, credible intelligence has confirmed that five key terrorist commanders were either killed or gravely injured during the airstrikes. These commanders, who have been identified as Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (also known as Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki, played significant roles in the terrorist network. Their elimination, along with the death of over 35 other foot soldiers, represents a substantial blow to the operational capabilities of the remaining terrorist forces in the region.
This operation underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to supporting the broader efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in the ongoing quest to restore peace and security to the Northeast. By continuing to target and dismantle the operational structures of these terrorist groups, the Nigerian Air Force is playing a pivotal role in weakening the remnants of the insurgency and paving the way for lasting peace in the region.
As the situation in the Northeast remains fluid, the Nigerian military’s ability to adapt and respond to emerging threats is crucial. The success of this operation highlights the importance of intelligence-driven missions and the need for continuous vigilance in the fight against terrorism. The elimination of these key commanders and their followers not only disrupts the immediate plans of the terrorists but also sends a clear message to any remaining insurgents that their activities will be met with decisive and effective action. The road to peace may be challenging, but with each successful operation, the path becomes clearer, and the hope for a peaceful and secure Northeast grows stronger.
