The Nigerian Air Force on Monday confirmed the successful elimination of more than 20 armed terrorists and the destruction of at least 21 motorcycles in a precision air operation carried out in Zamfara State on May 31, 2025.
According to NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the mission targeted terrorist elements operating south of Mai-Galma in Maru Local Government Area, following credible intelligence that indicated plans for a major assault on nearby civilian communities.
“Intelligence reports revealed that a large group of terrorists was mobilizing to strike unsuspecting settlements,” Ejodame stated. “The same intelligence confirmed they had already killed some farmers and abducted several civilians, including women and children.”
The air operation, conducted under Operation Fagan Tamma, involved reconnaissance aircraft dispatched to disrupt the hostile movement and potentially aid in rescuing abducted victims.
Upon arriving at the target zone, NAF personnel spotted more than 30 motorcycles ferrying armed terrorists toward the forest.
“The terrorists opened fire upon sighting the aircraft, prompting a precision strike. The engagement led to the destruction of several motorcycles and the neutralization of dozens of terrorists,” Ejodame added.
Following the airstrike, ground troops were quickly deployed to assess and exploit the scene. Their findings confirmed that over 20 terrorists were neutralized, and enemy logistics had been crippled.
Tragically, the operation was not without loss. Two local vigilantes were killed during the mission, and two others sustained injuries in the ensuing crossfire.
“The NAF deeply regrets the loss of these brave vigilantes and remains committed to working with local communities to ensure the safety of all citizens,” Ejodame said.
Search-and-rescue operations are currently underway to locate the abducted villagers believed to have been taken into the surrounding forest area.
Ejodame emphasized that all NAF missions are executed in compliance with international humanitarian standards and the service’s internal protocols.
“The NAF assured the public that all its operations are guided by strict rules of engagement, humanitarian law, and the NAF Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMRAP)—a policy framework that prioritizes the protection of civilians during conflict engagements,” he said.
“As investigations continue, the NAF remains resolute in intensifying pressure on criminal elements threatening peace in the region,” Ejodame noted.
