In a determined effort to combat terrorism in Nigeria, the Nigerian Air Force has carried out a series of devastating airstrikes against the Islamic State of the West Province (ISWAP), resulting in significant casualties for the notorious terrorist group.

The recent strikes reflect the unwavering commitment of the newly appointed Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Hassan Abubakar, to strengthen the fight against terrorism in the country.

According to reliable sources, the airstrikes took place on Monday, June 26, 2023, at specific locations identified as Andakar, Musari, and Klabariya in the northeastern region of Marte, located in Borno State. The Nigerian Air Force deployed its formidable air power to target these areas in a bid to neutralize the threat posed by ISWAP and disrupt their operations.

Intelligence Sources also told Zagazola Makama, a Counter-Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad region that “the attack was conducted following credible intelligence reports indicating that the terrorists, who had fled from series of air strikes conducted by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai in Jubularam, Kwalaram and Sabon Tumbu had converged in the areas”. 

Furthermore, Vistanaij Media gathered that prior to the attack, a sequence of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions were conducted. These missions provided crucial information indicating the extensive presence of terrorists dispersed throughout the settlements.

The sources said “As the aircraft arrived overhead the target area, Andakar, several ISWAP were seen attempting to flee. 

As a result, the aircraft launched an assault on the specified location, achieving a precise and effective strike on the designated target area. This operation resulted in the elimination of numerous terrorists, along with the destruction of their vehicle and logistical infrastructure.

According to the sources, follow-up attacks were subsequently conducted to target specific locations within Musari and Klabariya. These subsequent strikes resulted in the deaths of scores of terrorists, further debilitating their operations.