Troops from the Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have neutralized numerous bandits following an attack on Bassa-Kukoki village, located in the Allawa District of Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State. The operation took place after the DSS provided intelligence about an impending ambush by the bandits, which led to airstrikes carried out by Super Tucano jets.
According to a reliable source within the security sector, the airstrikes were launched shortly after the terrorists attacked the village. The source revealed to Daily Trust that although three members of the local community were tragically killed by fleeing bandits during the operation, no security personnel lost their lives.
“In the operation conducted in Shiroro, no security personnel were killed, but unfortunately, three villagers were attacked and killed by the terrorists before they were eventually neutralized,” the high-ranking official disclosed.
Group Captain Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), confirmed that at least 28 bandits were killed during the operation. He explained that the air assault targeted criminals responsible for terrorizing communities in the Shiroro area. The airstrikes were launched after a request for support from ground forces in the region.
While Ali did not comment on the bandits’ assault on DSS assets, he mentioned that over 100 bandits were engaged in a fierce firefight with friendly forces before the arrival of troops from Operation Whirl Punch.
“Once the positions of friendly forces were confirmed, the NAF conducted precision airstrikes on the bandits’ locations. These strikes were highly effective, eliminating dozens of bandits in repeated passes. As of now, 28 bodies have been recovered from the scene, with more terrorists, weapons, and burnt motorcycles being cleared,” he said.
Ali emphasized that the operation demonstrated the Air Force’s dedication to safeguarding the nation and supporting other security agencies in the fight against banditry, terrorism, and insurgency.
“Nigerians can rest assured that NAF will continue to conduct air operations, both independently and alongside ground forces,” Ali added.
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