ABUJA, Nigeria — The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) reported on Wednesday that its fighter aircraft, operating under Air Component Operation Hadin Kai, successfully executed an air interdiction mission on August 16, 2024, in Arina, Southern Tumbuns, Borno State. The operation resulted in the deaths of several top terrorist commanders, including Munzir Arika and Sani Dilla, along with numerous fighters.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, stated that the strikes were part of a decisive effort to weaken the remnants of terrorist groups operating in Nigeria’s Northeast while also protecting civilians and military personnel.
According to Gabkwet, intelligence reports had indicated a clandestine migration of terrorists into the area from neighboring locations. “Confirmatory Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions were further conducted on 12 and 15 August 2024, which identified numerous terrorists and active structures concealed under trees,” he said.
The air force subsequently launched coordinated airstrikes over the identified location. Post-strike Battle Damage Assessment revealed significant destruction, including the obliteration of equipment, vehicles, water vessels, and a suspected medical dispensary.
Credible intelligence sources reported that five key terrorist leaders were either killed or severely injured in the strike. The commanders believed to have been present during the operation include Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (also known as Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Dan Fulani Fari Fari, and Bakoura Arina Chiki.
In addition to these commanders, over 35 other fighters were reportedly neutralized in the operation.
Gabkwet emphasized that this operation has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the remaining terrorists in the region. “The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to supporting the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in safeguarding the region and ensuring peace and security prevail,” he stated.
This latest operation is part of the ongoing counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria’s Northeast, where various militant groups, including Boko Haram and its offshoots, have been active for over a decade. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced millions of civilians.
