The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has achieved a significant operational milestone after executing precise air strikes that obliterated a terrorist stronghold and eliminated numerous insurgents in the Lake Chad region.
Operation Details
The operation, carried out by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI in the early hours of 10 June, targeted the METELE area in the Northern Tumbuns region of the Lake Chad Basin. According to NAF, the mission was launched based on credible intelligence and surveillance reports indicating the presence of a high-ranking terrorist commander and heightened militant activity in the area.
Intelligence-Led Mission
Military authorities confirmed that air assets were deployed after Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions pinpointed the location of terrorist hideouts. Upon reaching the target area, aircrew observed significant movement around concealed structures, leading to the identification of hostile elements. The aircraft then executed precision strikes on the designated locations.
A post-strike assessment revealed that the terrorist enclave was completely destroyed, with scores of terrorists neutralised during the operation.
Air Chief Commends Personnel
Reacting to the development, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, commended the personnel involved in the mission and reiterated the Air Force's commitment to sustaining operations against terrorist groups. "We will continue to leverage our air power capabilities to locate, strike, and destroy terrorist targets wherever they are found," he stated. "The Nigerian Air Force remains resolute in denying terrorists freedom of action and ensuring they have no safe haven within our sovereign territory."
Continued Pressure on Insurgents
This latest strike is part of ongoing military efforts to degrade terrorist networks and restore lasting security across the North-East region. The NAF continues to intensify operations to eliminate threats and protect civilians.
