The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has struck a deadly blow against insurgents in Borno State.
An airstrike carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) targeted a gathering of ISWAP terrorists at Kaula, leading to the death of several militants.
This significant operation was revealed on Wednesday by counterterrorism expert, Zagazola Makama, in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle.
Makama disclosed that the terrorists had been assembling at the location with heavy weaponry, including gun trucks, motorcycles, and other supplies.
The intelligence, according to him, indicated that the buildup was part of a planned attack on nearby military installations.
Specifically, the insurgents had their sights on Malam Fatori, a key military base in the region.
Makama said, “The ISWAP terrorists were preparing to launch a coordinated assault against the military. They had gun trucks and logistical support ready to move.”
Faced with the imminent threat, the NAF moved swiftly to prevent what could have been a devastating attack.
The airstrike was launched on Tuesday, targeting the insurgents’ gathering with precision.
The operation destroyed several gun trucks and motorcycles belonging to the terrorists.
Security sources confirmed that the air assault also neutralized many ISWAP fighters, significantly weakening their operational strength.
Makama described the strike as a “major success,” emphasizing that it disrupted the terrorists’ plans and dealt a heavy blow to their morale.
He stated, “The airstrike was a game-changer. It neutralized the insurgents and dismantled their ability to carry out the planned attack.”
The destruction of ISWAP’s assets and the elimination of fighters have been hailed as a critical victory in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the Lake Chad region.
Military officials, though yet to issue an official statement, are reportedly pleased with the outcome of the operation.
A source close to the operation said, “This strike demonstrates the Air Force’s commitment to safeguarding troops and ensuring the security of Borno State.”
The region has been plagued by insurgency for over a decade, with ISWAP and Boko Haram posing relentless threats to military and civilian targets.
The airstrike at Kaula is the latest in a series of operations aimed at degrading ISWAP’s capabilities.
Observers note that the Nigerian military has increased its reliance on air power to combat insurgency, often delivering critical blows to terrorist strongholds.
The use of airstrikes, coupled with ground operations, has been pivotal in pushing back insurgents from key territories.
Makama, who has consistently reported on insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin, praised the swift response of the NAF in this operation.
“This is how counterterrorism should work – precise, timely, and devastating,” he added.
