Abuja, June 17, 2024 – In a significant operation, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) announced that its Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji has successfully eliminated more than 80 terrorists in a series of air strikes at Gidan Kare Village, located in Ruwan Godiya Ward of Faskari Local Government Area, Katsina State. The operation was confirmed by NAF spokesman, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, in a statement released on Monday in Abuja.
The air strikes, which took place on the night of June 15, targeted the terrorists and resulted in the destruction of over 45 motorcycles. According to AVM Gabkwet, the operation was initiated following intelligence reports that indicated over 100 terrorists were setting houses ablaze in a settlement approximately five kilometers from Gidan Kare Village.
“Upon arriving overhead the village around 8:30 PM, it was observed that several houses were on fire, causing widespread panic among the villagers,” Gabkwet stated. “Moments later, 12 motorcycles were seen leaving the village and were tracked along a footpath to a location near Gidan Kare Village and Kuka Shidda Camp, where they joined a large group of their cohorts.”
The terrorists, gathering from different directions, indicated a mass mobilization point, potentially for further attacks on nearby villages. Recognizing the critical opportunity, authorization was swiftly granted, and the location was struck at 9:40 PM. The air strike resulted in the confirmed elimination of over 80 terrorists and the burning of about 45 motorcycles. Surviving terrorists were seen fleeing the area, some limping from injuries sustained in the strike.
Further intelligence revealed that the terrorists were closely linked to notorious kingpin Yusuf Yellow and his associate Rabe Imani. AVM Gabkwet emphasized that these successful strikes, along with previous operations, have significantly disrupted terrorist activities in the region.
In a related development, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, commended the air component and other security agencies for their efforts in reducing terrorist capabilities in the North West. During a visit to 213 Forward Operating Base in Katsina on Monday, the CAS praised the synergy between the air component and other security forces, which has greatly contributed to regional security.
Air Marshal Abubakar also inaugurated new airfield facilities, including a taxiway link, operations and engineering building, and a sports complex. He asserted that these facilities would enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of air operations, particularly within the Northwest.
The CAS urged the personnel to maintain their dedication and relentless efforts in combating terrorism and all forms of criminality in Nigeria.
