By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has destroyed an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) manufacturing hub and neutralised several bandits during precision air strikes conducted in Zamfara State.
The operations were carried out on Sunday, by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Sector 2, targeting Turba Hill and Kachalla Dogo Sule’s Camp in Tsafe Local Government Area.
According to the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the strikes followed credible multi-source intelligence on the activities of armed bandits in the locations.
“The first strike targeted Turba Hill, a confirmed bandit hideout. Persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance revealed significant human activity and an operational zinc-roofed structure assessed to be central to the enclave’s activities,” Ejodame said.
He explained that the structure was engaged after positive identification, resulting in its complete destruction and the neutralisation of several bandits.
Ejodame said the second air interdiction mission was conducted at Kachalla Dogo Sule’s Camp, describing it as a notorious bandit stronghold and a key IED manufacturing and operational hub.
“Intelligence linked the camp to the planning and execution of recent IED attacks along the Dan Sadau–Magami axis. The precision strike successfully engaged multiple active structures, triggering intense fires that destroyed the facilities and neutralised several bandits,” he stated.
The NAF spokesperson noted that the operations had significantly degraded bandits’ capability to manufacture and deploy IEDs in Zamfara State.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with other components of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, to deny criminal elements safe havens and support efforts to restore peace and security in the North-West and across the country.