No fewer than 103 terrorists were neutralised and several logistics hubs destroyed as the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, sustained intelligence-led precision air strikes against Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists between October 10 and 18.
It was learnt that the successes were recorded through the coordinated employment of Nigerian Army Aviation, the Nigerian Army Remotely Piloted Aircraft (NARPAS) Regiment and Air Component assets.
Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force, Captain Mohammed Goni, disclosed that the sustained air campaign comprised seven strikes.
According to him, the strikes were carried out around Gudumbali in Guzamala Local Government Area on October 10, Badu in Monguno LGA on October 11, Mairari in Guzamala LGA and an area east of Badu on October 13, Duste Uku in Gombi LGA of Adamawa State on October 16, and the alternate residence of Abu Saleem, the ISWAP Wali of South Lake Chad, in the Arina Woje area of Monguno LGA on October 18.
Goni noted that a major success was recorded on October 18 when the Air Component conducted a precision strike against Abu Saleem’s alternate residence following intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance activities.
“Subsequent human intelligence (HUMINT) confirmed the neutralisation of Jindullah, a prominent ISWAP fighter reportedly serving as Abu Saleem’s chief security guard,” the JTF spokesman said.
He added that intelligence also confirmed the neutralisation of Abul Kissa, a member of the group’s Shura Council, alongside other prominent fighters within the targeted premises.
“The strike completely destroyed the targeted structure and key logistics assets, including nine boat engines and several motorcycles stored within the premises,” he said.
Earlier, on October 13, a Guardian air asset tracked a group of 16 terrorists from the Mairari axis to a gathering of more than 100 terrorists accompanied by several motorcycles, approximately 23 kilometres east of Badu and 19 kilometres west of Monguno.
A subsequent precision strike on the gathering resulted in the assessed neutralisation of approximately 30 terrorists.
Goni said the other strikes during the period targeted terrorist elements and facilities around Gudumbali, Badu, Mairari and Duste Uku, collectively resulting in the reported neutralisation of 103 terrorists.
“The sustained successes underscore the effectiveness of coordinated, intelligence-led air operations in degrading terrorist capabilities, disrupting command structures and dismantling critical logistics networks.
“Through continued synergy among Nigerian Army Aviation, NARPARS, the Air Component and ground forces, OPHK remains resolute in maintaining operational momentum, denying terrorists safe havens and advancing efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the North East.”