NAF kills several bandits in convoy airstrikes
Several terrorists were killed when the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) bombed their convoy near Yarbuga in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
According to NAF’s spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the strikes were conducted on July 9, based on real-time intelligence indicating the movement of nearly 150 motorcycles, each carrying about two armed terrorists, in the area.
Ejodame said: “After positive identification confirming the hostile presence, NAF aircraft engaged the convoy with devastating accuracy.”
He explained that survivors were seen fleeing on foot and on motorcycles as air assets maintained persistent surveillance and executed follow-up strikes, effectively disrupting the enemy’s withdrawal routes.
According to him, after the airstrikes, ground troops yesterday conducted a follow-up exploit mission to Yarbuga village.
At the scene, remains of scores of terrorists and their weapons were found in the area, along with several burnt motorcycles,” Ejodame said
Also, the NAF 223 Light Battalion, Zuru, has successfully repelled a bandits’ attack on Ribah town in Danko/ Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi.
A statement signed by the Director of Security, Cabinet Office, Abdulrahman Zagga, in Birnin Kebbi, yesterday, said that the attempted assault occurred on Wednesday and involved over 400 bandits seeking to overrun the area.
”A fierce gun battle ensued between the troops and the attackers, resulting in the elimination of many of the bandits. While some of the assailants managed to retrieve the corpses of their fallen comrades, others were left behind along with a cache of recovered weapons,” he said.
Zagga commended the bravery and resilience of the NAF in successfully repelling the attacks, explaining that the superior combat skills and determination of the troops turned the tide in their favour in spite of the threat posed by the large number of bandits initially.
He also acknowledged the swift intervention of the Nigerian Air Force whose fighter jet provided critical air support, bombing the fleeing bandits and inflicting heavy casualties. Though the gunfire caused initial panic and confusion within the community, the situation has since been brought under control and normalcy fully restored.
