NAF air strikes neutralise multiple Boko Haram fighters in Sambisa Forest

Air operations by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have successfully killed several Boko Haram insurgents in Sambisa Forest, Borno State, as part of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts, according to security sources cited by Zagazola Makama, a publication covering the Lake Chad region.

The mission, carried out under Operation HADIN KAI, targeted insurgents reported to be around the Parisu axis of the forest, following intelligence confirming militant activity in the area.

“At about 9 pm on Friday, March 20, an air asset was deployed to carry out an armed reconnaissance and air interdiction mission over the suspected location,” a security source told news outlet, Zagazola Makama.

“Upon arrival overhead, the platform established visual contact with suspected Boko Haram terrorists engaging in active movements within the area.”

The aircrew maintained surveillance, tracking the insurgents to a concealed structure hidden under dense foliage. A precision strike was executed on the target, destroying the hideout and neutralising multiple insurgents.

Subsequent assessments revealed that some militants attempted to flee to adjoining hideouts. A follow-up strike was carried out on a second location, further degrading the insurgents’ capabilities and demonstrating sustained air dominance in the region.

“The successful operation is part of ongoing coordinated air and ground offensives aimed at dismantling terrorist strongholds in Sambisa Forest and adjoining areas,” the source added.