Air Force Operation Eliminates Nine Militants, Key Commander in Borno
The Nigerian Air Force has carried out an air operation in Borno State, neutralising nine fighters linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), including a senior commander.
The strike, conducted in the Sambisa Forest area, followed intelligence reports indicating the movement of suspected militants within the region. Surveillance operations were deployed to monitor activities before air assets were engaged to target the group at a designated location.
Military authorities said the operation resulted in significant damage to the targeted site, with multiple casualties recorded among the fighters. Among those killed was a commander identified as playing a key role in providing security escorts for high-ranking members of the group.
Security sources indicated that the individual was familiar with operational routes and terrain within the Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas, making his removal a strategic setback for the group’s coordination and movement.
Further intelligence suggested that some of those affected in the strike were connected to recent attacks on military personnel in parts of Borno State.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to disrupt insurgent activities through intelligence-led air campaigns. Defence authorities stated that such coordinated actions are aimed at weakening militant networks and enhancing security across the North-East region.
