The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Saturday announced that its fighter aircraft conducted precision airstrikes targeting major bandit strongholds in Dunya Hill and Batauna Forest, Giwa, Kaduna State.
The operation resulted in the neutralisation of numerous combatants and the destruction of significant weapon stockpiles and resources critical to the bandits’ operations.
Director of NAF Public Relations, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, disclosed that the operation was part of Operation Farautar Mujiya, an air interdiction campaign under the broader Operation Fansan Yamma.
“These areas, characterised by dense vegetation and natural cave formations, have long served as safe havens for bandit groups.
“The objective of the airstrikes was to dismantle entrenched criminal networks and degrade their capacity to operate effectively,” Akinboyewa said.
“The strikes were preceded by intensive intelligence gathering, which identified high-value targets, including key logistics hubs and hidden armories. The aerial assault led to the elimination of many bandits and left their enclaves in disarray, forcing survivors to flee,” he added.
Akinboyewa highlighted the success of the operation, noting that multiple kidnap victims were able to escape during the chaos.
“Credible sources from local communities have confirmed that bandits are on the run, their once-secure enclaves disrupted. Several kidnap victims have regained their freedom amidst the turmoil inflicted on their captors,” he added.
“The NAF continues to conduct precision airstrikes to incapacitate criminal groups terrorising the North-west, providing critical support for ground forces.
“This sustained effort not only demonstrates the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring peace and security but also offers renewed hope to communities that have long suffered under the threat of banditry,” Akinboyewa concluded.
John Shiklam
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