The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has sustained pressure on terrorist and bandit groups operating in the North-West, launching a series of targeted air operations that disrupted criminal activities and supported the rescue of 22 kidnapped persons in Sokoto State.
Under the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma, NAF aircraft carried out precision strikes on identified terrorist enclaves between June 18 and 19, targeting locations linked to armed groups threatening communities across the region.
NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operations included attacks on a confirmed terrorist stronghold as well as an intelligence-driven mission around Kidandan, where air assets engaged and neutralised armed fighters after tracking their movements.
He noted that subsequent surveillance flights over Fatika and Sabuwa found no signs of renewed terrorist activity, while aerial monitoring continued to provide support for ground forces conducting clearance operations.
On the ground, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma recorded significant gains in Sokoto, rescuing 22 victims from separate kidnap incidents in Sabon Birni and Isa local government areas.
According to the operation’s spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, troops moved into action after receiving reports that terrorists had ambushed travellers along the Sabon Birni–Shinkafi Road near Kura Mota Village, abducting passengers from two vehicles.
Backed by aerial reconnaissance, security forces tracked the attackers and mounted sustained pressure that compelled them to abandon 17 captives and retreat into surrounding areas.
In another operation at Chohi Village, troops responded to an attempted abduction of farmers working on their fields. A rapid pursuit of the fleeing terrorists led to the successful rescue of five victims, who were later reunited with their families.
The combined air and ground offensives reflect ongoing efforts by security forces to deny criminal groups safe havens, protect vulnerable communities and restore stability across the North-West.