- Akinboyewa said the operation was carried out on Tuesday, after credible intelligence and confirmatory aerial surveillance efforts that indicated an influx of armed terrorists into the forest.
The Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma has eliminated numerous bandits and destroyed their logistics base in airstrikes at Alawa Forest.
AVM Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, disclosed this information in a statement on Wednesday.
Akinboyewa explained that the operation was conducted on Tuesday, following credible intelligence and aerial surveillance indicating an influx of armed terrorists into the forest.
“These criminals were linked to widespread violence, including two Improvised Explosive Device attacks on 19 December 2024 in Bassa, Shiroro LGA, which sadly claimed some innocent lives.
“In response, NAF launched a three-day sustained air operation, code-named ‘Konan Daji’, to degrade the terrorists’ capabilities and render the forest uninhabitable for them.
“To this end, the air component dispatched a formation of fighter aircraft to execute air interdiction missions in the area.
“Upon arrival, the jets swiftly engaged the identified targets with precision strikes.
“They neutralised numerous armed fighters and destroyed their logistics base, as confirmed by multiple secondary explosions,” Akinboyewa said.
He emphasized that NAF, in coordination with ground forces, remains committed to maintaining operational dominance across the region.
According to Akinboyewa, efforts are ongoing to eliminate all criminal elements from Alawa Forest and surrounding areas, ensuring lasting peace and security for Niger communities.
Akinboyewa noted that the successful operation significantly weakened the bandits and marked a major achievement for NAF in combating terrorism and insecurity in the region.