In a decisive and strategic move, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai conducted two major air strikes on November 8 and 11, 2023, effectively eliminating a substantial number of terrorists who had sought refuge in the Ajigin and Banki Junction areas of Borno State.
Confirming these operations, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, outlined the details of the first air interdiction mission. Executed on November 8, the mission targeted terrorists’ enclaves situated 1.9 kilometers south of Ajigin. Intelligence reports had indicated the presence of four concealed gun-trucks under thick shrubbery, with the terrorists planning an imminent attack on friendly troops around Damboa and Wajiroko.
The precision air strike successfully neutralized three of the gun-trucks, evident from the billowing thick black smoke and flames emanating from the targeted vehicles. Despite the fourth gun-truck attempting to flee, it was pursued for approximately 26 kilometers before disappearing beneath a tree. The pursuing aircraft promptly struck the truck, rendering it engulfed in flames with no signs of movement. This comprehensive destruction of all four gun-trucks and their occupants significantly degraded the terrorists’ capacity to launch attacks on both friendly forces and local communities in the region.
On November 11, 2023, another air interdiction mission took place at a location 7 kilometers east of Banki Junction. This previously deserted area had transformed into a hub for terrorist activities, serving as a logistics storage and staging point for attacks on troops at Bank Junction. In response, Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft were swiftly deployed to interdict the location.
The aftermath of this strike revealed the complete destruction of the terrorists’ enclave, with fires engulfing the logistics sites. Despite evident desperation and confusion among the terrorists, the overwhelming firepower from both air and ground forces continues to exert sustained pressure. This successful joint effort between the Nigerian military’s air and ground troops has notably restricted the terrorists’ freedom of movement and action.
The Nigerian Air Force commends the exemplary operational jointness displayed by its personnel, underscoring the dedication and commitment of both air and ground troops in ensuring the safety and security of law-abiding citizens. These recent air strikes represent a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to eradicate terrorism and maintain peace in the region.
