The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has carried out a precision air strike on Boko Haram enclaves in Chikide and Degbewa, Borno State, dealing a severe blow to the terrorist group.
Acting on intelligence and surveillance reports, the air force targeted key insurgent hideouts within the Mandara Mountains, where notorious Boko Haram leader Ali Ngulde and his fighters were believed to be meeting.
According to NAF’s Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, surveillance detected a fortified command hub equipped with solar-powered installations, prompting a surprise night strike on March 16.
“In a bold demonstration of air power and precision night warfare capabilities, the NAF executed a devastating nocturnal air strike against terrorist hideouts in Chikide and Degbewa,” Ali said.
He noted that the operation destroyed key logistics and command structures, igniting large fires and neutralizing several terrorists.
“The successful execution of this night operation underscores the NAF’s growing dominance in both day and night air power capabilities, proving that insurgents can no longer operate under the cover of darkness,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has arrested three suspects caught transporting 30 cartons of codeine syrup and other hard drugs allegedly meant for Boko Haram insurgents and bandits in Yobe State.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, identified the suspects as 50-year-old Alhaji Usman Yahaya, 27-year-old Joseph Matthew, and 25-year-old Solomon Bala, all residents of Potiskum, Yobe State.
“The suspects were apprehended while transporting 30 cartons of codeine syrup and other various hard drugs around Potiskum. They confessed that the drugs were intended for supply to bandits, Boko Haram insurgents, and kidnappers terrorizing Yobe State and neighboring countries,” Adejobi stated.
Additionally, a 30-year-old woman, Hauwa Sani, was arrested for allegedly smuggling ammunition concealed in a five-litre container of palm oil. She was intercepted while attempting to transport the ammunition to Katsina State.
In another operation, two suspects, Yusuf Datani and Usman Labaran, were caught with 10 AK-47 rifles. They admitted to being involved in arms trafficking and confirmed receiving ₦3,980,000 for their last batch of weapons.
Adejobi emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to dismantling criminal networks and urged citizens to report suspicious activities.
Nigeria has been grappling with terrorist and bandit attacks, with criminals raiding villages, killing and abducting residents, and looting homes. However, recent operations by security forces indicate progress in the fight against insurgency and organized crime.
A similar arrest was made earlier this month when a 55-year-old suspected gunrunner, Peter James, was caught transporting illegal weapons during a stop-and-search operation along the Warri-Benin Road.
Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to neutralizing terrorist threats and ensuring stability across the country.
