NAF Airstrikes Destroy Terrorist Strongholds in Niger, Kill Notorious Kingpin

By Iyojo Ameh

Airstrikes carried out by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) under Operation Fansan Yamma have eliminated scores of terrorists and destroyed critical arms depots in Niger State, including the residence of a notorious terrorist leader, Mallam Saleh.

NAF spokesperson, Olusola Akinboyewa, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, noting that the operation, conducted on November 16, 2024, was a decisive blow against the terrorists who had long terrorized Shiroro Local Government Area.

Mallam Saleh, identified as a close ally of the infamous Dogo Gide, had been orchestrating attacks, abductions, and extortion in the Shiroro communities.

“During the operation, terrorists on motorcycles were observed in the target area. With precise airstrikes, NAF assets obliterated the weapons cache and neutralized numerous fighters,” the statement read. A secondary explosion confirmed the destruction of the arms depot, further crippling the group’s operations.

The NAF emphasized that the mission is part of a broader strategy to weaken terrorist logistics and restore peace to the region.