NAF airstrike eliminates 23 bandits in Zamfara operation

DDM News

In a decisive military operation, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) launched an airstrike that eliminated 23 bandits in Tsafe Local Government Area.

The offensive was part of ongoing efforts by the military to combat terrorism, eliminate armed groups, and restore peace.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the air raid followed credible intelligence reports about an imminent cattle rustling operation, Diaspora digital media (DDM) reports.

The intelligence suggested that the gang comprised close associates and relatives of a notorious bandit leader, Ado Aleiro.

Aleiro has been on security watchlists for years due to his involvement in multiple criminal activities.

After receiving the intelligence, ground troops and air surveillance teams monitored the movement of the suspected bandits.

The criminals were tracked as they moved toward a mountainous location, seeking refuge after stealing herds of cattle.

Rather than engaging immediately, NAF officials and ground troops waited for the bandits to reach a disadvantageous position.

“The bandits had already succeeded in rustling livestock and were attempting to flee when they met resistance,” the report stated.

Ground forces maintained close surveillance while awaiting the optimal moment to strike.

Once their location was confirmed, NAF swiftly deployed air assets, launching precision strikes on the fleeing bandits.

The intense air bombardment reportedly neutralized a significant number of them, with sources confirming at least 23 casualties.

Several other bandits sustained injuries, making escape difficult.

A security operative, who spoke anonymously, revealed that NAF’s operation also facilitated the recovery of numerous rustled cattle.

He emphasized that such air operations have disrupted criminal activities, particularly cattle rustling.

Cattle rustling remains a major source of funding for bandit groups in Zamfara and neighboring states.

“This action is part of a broader military strategy aimed at dismantling terrorist strongholds,” he noted.

NAF’s intervention is weakening their financial network and reducing their operational capacity.

In recent years, the Nigerian Air Force has intensified counterterrorism efforts, conducting multiple aerial strikes against insurgents and armed groups.

As part of Operation Fansan Yamma, a military campaign in the northwest, NAF provides crucial aerial support to ground troops.

The force eliminates threats from the skies and prevents bandits from regrouping after raids.

NAF’s strategy involves intelligence-driven airstrikes targeting high-risk areas where bandits and insurgents operate.

Advanced surveillance technology and sophisticated fighter jets enhance mission success rates.

With such tools, the force has executed multiple successful missions that significantly weaken bandit networks.

Military analysts believe these efforts are gradually reducing the influence of criminal elements in rural communities.

While the exact number of casualties remains unverified, eyewitnesses reported seeing multiple bandits fall during the precision strikes.

Security analysts have described the operation as one of the most successful air raids in the region.

Despite these successes, challenges remain in fully eliminating the threats posed by armed groups in Zamfara.

The terrain in the northwest provides natural cover for bandits, making ground engagement difficult.

NAF’s continued aerial operations are proving to be a game-changer in security enforcement.

Air surveillance allows security forces to track and strike targets with accuracy.

Inquiries regarding the operation were made to Olusola Akinboyewa, NAF’s director of public relations and information.

He did not immediately provide an official statement on the matter.

Security sources suggest that NAF remains committed to intensifying efforts to rid the region of criminal elements.

Residents of Tsafe LGA and nearby communities have expressed relief following the successful operation.

Many locals, who have long suffered from bandit attacks, call for sustained military action.

Some community leaders urge the government to support NAF and other security agencies with more resources.

Nigeria continues to face security challenges, making NAF’s role in counterinsurgency and anti-banditry efforts crucial.

The recent airstrike demonstrates the military’s determination to reclaim territories overrun by criminals.

NAF has reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside other security agencies to neutralize threats.

The force aims to ensure that bandits find no safe haven in Zamfara or any part of the country.

With continued intelligence-driven operations and federal government support, security experts believe lasting stability is achievable.

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