Nigerian Air Force Airstrikes Kill Scores of Terrorists in Niger State’s Alawa Forest
Nigerian Air Force Airstrikes Kill Scores of Terrorists in Niger State’s Alawa Forest
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the elimination of scores of suspected terrorists hiding in Alawa Forest, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The operation, carried out by the air component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, aimed to dismantle terrorist strongholds in Nigeria’s Northwest and North Central regions.
According to a statement from Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Information and Public Relations, the strikes were based on credible intelligence and aerial surveillance revealing an influx of armed terrorists into the forest.
“This operation, conducted on 21 January 2025, was based on credible intelligence and follow-up confirmatory aerial surveillance efforts which indicated an influx of armed terrorists into the forest,” Akinboyewa said.
The terrorists were linked to recent violence, including two Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attacks in Bassa, Shiroro LGA, on December 19, 2024, which resulted in multiple civilian casualties.
In response, NAF launched a three-day sustained air campaign, code-named KONAN DAJI, to neutralize the threats.
Read also: Dismissed Nigerian Soldier Appeals to Tinubu for Reinstatement
“Upon arrival, the jets swiftly engaged the identified targets with precision strikes, neutralising numerous armed fighters and destroying their logistics base, as confirmed by multiple secondary explosions,” the statement added.
The NAF, in coordination with ground forces, emphasized its commitment to maintaining dominance in the region and ensuring the security of communities in Niger State and beyond. The operation’s success further demonstrates efforts to degrade terrorist capabilities and render the Alawa Forest uninhabitable for criminal elements.
