Airstrikes by Nigerian Air Force eliminate Boko Haram Commander Abu Asad, top operatives in Mandara Mountains

In a significant blow to Boko Haram’s operations, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) reported a successful series of airstrikes conducted by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, resulting in the elimination of key Boko Haram figure Abu Asad and several other top terrorists.

The targeted airstrikes took place on Friday in the challenging terrain of the Mandara Mountains in Borno State, according to Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF spokesperson.

Gabkwet hailed the operation as “one of the most successful strikes” carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai.

During the operation, more than 100 heavily armed terrorists were observed in the vicinity, engaging in banter and moving randomly around structures that also included four troop carriers.

The aftermath of the airstrikes revealed the destruction of two out of three structures and the complete annihilation of the troop carriers.

Among the terrorists confirmed eliminated in the airstrike were Abu Asad, a key figure in the Ali Ngulde group under Boko Haram, along with other notorious individuals such as Ibrahim Nakeeb, Mujaheed Dimtu, Mustafa Munzir, and several fighters.

The NAF imagemaker, in a Saturday statement, provided details on the successful mission.

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, praised the Air Component Commander and his team for their exemplary performance in dealing a significant blow to the terrorist organization.

Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the importance of maintaining relentless pressure on terrorists, stating, “We must continue to justify the trust and confidence the Federal Government and our people have bestowed on us by ensuring that we go all out in making life unbearable for these terrorists and criminals until they surrender or are completely eliminated.”

The successful operation reflects the commitment of the Nigerian military to curbing the activities of Boko Haram and other extremist groups in the region, reaffirming their dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the populace.