The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa has commensurated with the families of the 2 vigilantes who died in action during a precise air interdiction operation was executed on 31 May 2025, targeting known terrorist elements within the Maraya Village and wishes the other 2 wounded speedy recovery.
This is subsequent to the air strike conducted at about 01:11am on 01 June 2025, troops of 1 Brigade stationed at Forward Operation Base Magami were swiftly deployed to the Maraya/Wabi vicinity in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
This strategic move was a crucial step in ensuring the safety and security of the region against terrorists threats. Their primary objective according to the Director Defence Media Operations, Maj General Markus Kangye was to conduct a comprehensive battle damage assessment of the air strike and execute a thorough exploitation to gather crucial intelligence.
Maj Gen Kangye revealed that on the spot assessment of the air strike confirmed 20 terrorists killed, underscoring the effectiveness of the operation in countering the threat posed by the terrorist elements in the area.
He said regrettably, 2 members of the vigilantee team that took part in the operation lost their lives while 2 others got injured inadvertently during the air strike.
"Moving forward, the Armed Forces of Nigerian are committed to fostering stronger collaboration with local security entities and stakeholders to bolster coordination and prevent similar mishaps from occurring.
"Continuous efforts are underway to mitigate the risk of recurrence. This proactive approach aims to enhance overall effectiveness and minimize unintended consequences in future operations."he added
Meanwhile, in a continued effort to combat terrorism effectively, Director of Public Relations and Information,Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame in a presss stztement revealed how the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), in a swift response to a distress call on 31st May 2025, successfully neutralised over 20 armed terrorists and destroyed more than 21 motorcycles during an air interdiction operation in Zamfara State.
Air Commodore Ejodame said the operation, carried out in the general area south of Mai-Galma in Maru Local Government Area, was aimed at halting a planned large-scale attack on vulnerable communities by armed bandits.
"Intelligence received indicated that a significant number of terrorists were massing and preparing to strike unsuspecting settlements. Further intelligence confirmed that the bandits had killed some farmers and abducted a number of civilians, including women and children.
"Consequently, NAF aircraft under Operation FANSAN YAMMA was immediately dispatched on armed reconnaissance and possible rescue mission.
"On arrival at the area, over 30 motorcycles carrying armed terrorists heading into the nearby forest were positively identified. On sighting the aircraft, the terrorists opened fire, prompting a precision engagement that led to the destruction of several motorcycles and the neutralisation of dozens of terrorists.
He explained that the ground forces were immediately mobilised to exploit the situation. They confirmed the destruction of enemy assets and the neutralisation of over 20 terrorists. Unfortunately, in the course of the operation, 2 local vigilantes lost their lives and 2 others sustained injuries in the crossfire.
The NAF deeply regrets the loss of these brave vigilantes and remains committed to working with local communities to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. Efforts are ongoing to track and rescue the kidnapped villagers who were taken into the adjoining forest.
The NAF reiterates that all it's operations are guided by strict rules of engagement, adherence to humanitarian law as well as the Nigerian Air Force Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMRAP), which emphasises the protection of innocent lives even in the face of hostile engagements.
As investigations continue, the NAF assures the public that all necessary measures are taken to protect civilians while intensifying pressure on criminal elements threatening peace in the region.