The Nigerian Air Force declared on Monday that airstrikes executed by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma resulted in the elimination of multiple terrorists in Niger State.
This operation also focused on key arms storage facilities and the home of a notorious figure, Mallam Saleh, who is known to be an ally of Dogo Gide.
In a statement, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Olusola Akinboyewa, disclosed that Saleh’s reign of terror had severely impacted vulnerable communities in Shiroro, with his actions involving attacks, abductions, and extortion that instilled widespread fear.
He said, “Airstrikes conducted by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma on 16 November 2024 successfully neutralised numerous terrorists and obliterated a critical arms depot and the residence of the notorious kingpin, Mallam Saleh, a loyalist of Dogo Gide, in Palele, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
“Saleh’s reign of terror had plagued vulnerable communities in Shiroro, leaving a trail of fear. However, the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma had been tracking his movements and gathering crucial intelligence to dismantle his operations.
“As NAF aircraft swooped in, terrorists on motorcycles were spotted in the target area. With swift and precise action, the NAF assets unleashed devastating strikes, obliterating the weapons cache and dealing a crushing blow to the terrorists. A secondary explosion confirmed the destruction of the munitions, crippling Saleh’s capabilities.”
Akinboyewa emphasized that this operation is an integral component of the Nigerian Air Force’s logistics strangulation strategy, aimed at undermining terrorist strongholds and reestablishing peace in the region.
He further noted that by working in conjunction with ground forces, the NAF will ensure its superiority through continuous patrols, heightened situational awareness, and precise interdictions.
The ramifications of this mission are expected to be substantial, diminishing the operational capabilities of the terrorists and safeguarding the lives of innocent civilians.
