The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the killing of several high-ranking Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) commanders in precision air strikes carried out in Southern Tumbuns, Borno state.
Air strikes were conducted on July 27 under Operation Hadin Kai, following credible intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions that confirmed the regrouping of terrorists at ARINA WOJE, a notorious ISWAP enclave near Lake Chad.
In a statement on Monday, Ehimen Ejodame, Air Commodore and Director of Public Relations and Information, said the ISR sorties had revealed increased movement of foot soldiers, the reactivation of insurgent infrastructure, and possible hidden command centers beneath thick foliage.
The NAF spokesman said: “Air assets were dispatched for a focused strike mission.
“On arrival, the aircrew acquired and prosecuted pre-selected targets using precision-guided munitions, achieving devastating effects.”
According to him, a preliminary battle damage assessment showed that several structures were destroyed, including those housing senior ISWAP leaders, fighters, and logistics hubs.
He said the successful operation has significantly disrupted ISWAP’s planning and resupply capabilities in the region.
“This operation reflects the NAF’s continued resolve to dislodge terrorist elements, deny them freedom of movement, and support ground forces in restoring peace and stability across Nigeria,” Ejodame said.
He added that the strike also underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-led air power in modern counter-terrorism efforts.