Military Airstrikes Neutralize ISWAP
In a major counterterrorism operation, the Nigerian military has dealt a severe blow to the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorist group operating in the Lake Chad region of Borno State. Through a precision airstrike carried out on Saturday, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralized several high-ranking ISWAP commanders and over 30 insurgents.
According to the Nigerian Air Force spokesman, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the aerial bombardment targeted ISWAP hideouts nestled within the Kolleram village along the shores of Lake Chad. The airstrike was executed after the terrorists refused to heed calls to surrender their weapons and ammunition to the military, despite appeals from authorities and community leaders.
Among the significant casualties inflicted on ISWAP’s leadership ranks were Ali Dawud, Bakura Fallujah, and Mallam Ari – identified as senior terrorist commanders. The airstrike also destroyed numerous ISWAP vehicles, motorcycles, and logistical assets, further crippling the group’s operational capabilities.
Gabkwet revealed that post-strike Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the neutralization of over 30 terrorists, in addition to the high-profile commanders eliminated. Intelligence gathered after the operation indicated that a key ISWAP facility used for food processing activities, including grinding machines, was obliterated in the aerial bombardment.
The Air Force spokesman hailed the success of the airstrikes as a significant step forward in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria, underscoring the military’s commitment to eradicating terrorist groups and ensuring the safety and security of Nigerian citizens. He emphasized that the operation has effectively degraded ISWAP’s capabilities in the Lake Chad region by neutralizing key figures and destroying vital logistical infrastructure.
The precision airstrikes complement the ongoing efforts of ground forces in the Lake Chad flank and represent a crucial victory in the broader counterterrorism campaign against ISWAP and other terrorist organizations operating in the region.
As the Nigerian military intensifies its operations against non-state armed groups, the successful elimination of high-ranking ISWAP commanders and the disruption of their logistics networks will undoubtedly deal a severe blow to the terrorist group’s operations in the Lake Chad basin. However, continued vigilance and sustained efforts will be required to consolidate these gains and ensure lasting peace and security in the region.
Reference
Military Kills ISWAP Commanders, 30 Members In Fresh Operation published in Dailytrust By
Idowu Isamotu