By Emmanuel Obisue
Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has successfully launched precision airstrikes in the Alawa Forests of Shiroro Local Government Area in Niger State, eliminating several terrorists and destroying critical weaponry.
Counterinsurgency expert Zagazola Makama revealed over the weekend that the air missions were based on intelligence pinpointing the location of key leaders of Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad, JAS, including notorious figures such as Saddiku, Umar Taraba, and Kabiru Doctor.
The strikes resulted in the destruction of weapons, technical vehicles, and eight motorcycles used by the extremists. This heavy blow has caused the terrorists to abandon their established hideouts, with many fleeing to the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area in Kaduna State, signaling a possible shift in their operations.
The Alawa Forests, long suspected as a terrorist refuge, had been a major target for counterinsurgency forces. Intelligence reports now suggest that Birnin Gwari, once a stronghold for Ansaru extremists, may become the new hub for these fleeing insurgents.
NAF operations are set to continue, with airstrikes planned for new threats emerging in Birnin Gwari.
According to the NAF, ongoing assessments of the Alawa mission will provide further updates on the successful disruption of terrorist activities, reinforcing the military’s commitment to safeguarding affected regions.
