The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reportedly neutralised more than 10 fighters linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) during coordinated air operations in parts of Borno and Yobe states.
The strikes were carried out by the air component of Operation Hadin Kai following real-time intelligence gathered through unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The operation targeted ISWAP elements operating within the Timbuktu Triangle and surrounding areas.
According to security-focused publication Zagazola Makama, aerial surveillance detected a group of about 10 ISWAP fighters gathered under a large tree along the Ambia Tasha–Ambia Sheruri–Ambia Turo–Shangamaru axis in Yobe State. The fighters were reportedly moving with motorcycles and bicycles, while additional suspects were believed to be concealed within nearby vegetation.
After receiving authorisation, NAF fighter jets engaged the targets with precision-guided munitions, destroying terrorist assets, including motorcycles used for mobility and logistics.
Post-strike assessments reportedly confirmed heavy casualties among the insurgents, with only one individual observed escaping the strike zone.
Military sources said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to restrict ISWAP’s movement, disrupt its supply routes, and enhance the safety of communities across the North-East. They added that aerial surveillance and targeted strikes, coordinated closely with ground forces, will continue until remaining threats are neutralised.
Earlier this month, the Nigerian Air Force conducted similar air operations across the North-East and North-West, destroying terrorist hideouts, eliminating weapons and logistics, and neutralising several fighters.
In a statement, Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, confirmed that the operations were carried out between January 1 and 2 under joint task forces operating within Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fasan Yamma Sector 2.
