By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), through the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (AC OPHK), has reaffirmed its commitment to national security with the successful neutralisation of more than 30 terrorists during a coordinated operation with ground troops.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the operation took place on 5 September 2025 at Dar-El-Jamal village in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.
The mission was launched following reports of heavy terrorist engagement against friendly forces in the area.
Acting swiftly on the situation report, the AC OPHK deployed an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and Air Interdiction (AI) mission. While en route, the aircrew linked up with ground troops in Banki, who confirmed that reinforcements were already on their way to support frontline forces.
On arrival at Dar-El-Jamal, the aircrew visually identified friendly positions before ISR scans detected terrorists attempting to escape northwards into nearby bushes. In a series of three well-coordinated and precise strikes, the fleeing insurgents were engaged and over 30 of them neutralised. Reinforcement troops later arrived to secure the area and stabilise the situation.
This decisive success underscores the synergy between air and ground forces, as well as the effectiveness of joint operations in counterterrorism campaigns. It also reinforces the Armed Forces’ resolve to dismantle terrorist networks, protect vulnerable communities, and restore lasting peace to the North East and beyond.
The Nigerian Air Force, working in concert with sister services and other security agencies, reassures Nigerians of its continued commitment to deliberate and collaborative actions aimed at safeguarding the nation and its citizens.