See The Numbers of Terrorists Nigerian Air Force Eliminates in Katsina Air Strike
By Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced that its Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji conducted a successful air raid on terrorist hideouts in Gidan Kare Village, located in Ruwan Godiya Ward of Faskari Local Government Area, Katsina State, resulting in the death of over 80 terrorists.
Reports indicate that the terrorists, numbering more than 100, had previously attacked a settlement approximately five kilometers from Gidan Kare Village, where they set several houses ablaze.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, detailed the operation, noting that it also resulted in the destruction of 45 motorcycles. He stated: “Following intelligence reports indicating that over 100 terrorists were burning houses in a settlement about 5 km from Gidan Kare village, we observed several houses on fire upon arriving at the village around 8:30 pm. Shortly after, we noticed 12 motorcycles leaving the village along a footpath towards a location near Gidan Kare Village and Kuka Shidda Camp. They joined up with a larger group of terrorists, suggesting a massing-up point for further attacks on nearby villages.
Given this critical intelligence, authorization was swiftly obtained, and the location was struck at 9:40 pm, resulting in the elimination of over 80 terrorists and the destruction of approximately 45 motorcycles. Some surviving terrorists were seen fleeing or limping away. Subsequent intelligence confirmed that the terrorists were linked to notorious kingpin Yusuf Yellow and his associate Rabe Imani. These airstrikes, along with previous ones, have significantly disrupted terrorist activities in the area.”
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, praised the Air Component and other security agencies for their efforts in reducing the capabilities of terrorist groups in the Northwest. During a visit to the 213 Forward Operating Base in Katsina on June 17, 2024, he commended the team’s determination and bravery, stating: “As we continue our fight against insurgency and banditry in our nation, I commend your resoluteness and gallantry.”
He also highlighted the ongoing contributions of Operation HADARIN DAJI in enhancing regional security and urged continued dedication to combating terrorism and criminality in Nigeria.
Additionally, Marshal Abubakar inaugurated new airfield facilities, including a taxiway link, operations and engineering building, and a sports complex, which are expected to enhance the efficiency of air operations in
the Northwest.
