By Augustine Ehikioya
Clamping down on bandits activities in the country, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, has neutralised scores of armed bandits in a series of precision airstrikes conducted on 9 July, 2025.
This was disclosed in a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA).
The statement said “In a major offensive under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has neutralised scores of armed bandits in a series of precision airstrikes conducted on 9 July, 2025, targeting a migrating convoy along the Kebbi–Zamfara axis.
“The strikes were based on real-time intelligence, which revealed the movement of close to 150 motorcycles in batches, each carrying about 2 armed terrorists near Yarbuga in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. After positive identification confirming the hostile presence, NAF aircraft engaged the convoy with devastating accuracy. Survivors were seen fleeing on foot and motorcycles, as air assets maintained persistent overwatch and executed follow-up strikes, effectively disrupting enemy withdrawal routes.
“Following the airstrikes, ground troops conducted a follow-up exploit mission to Yarbuga village on the morning of 10 July, 2025. At the scene, remains of scores of terrorists and their weapons were found in the area, along with several burnt motorcycles.
“This joint air–ground operation dealt a significant blow to bandit networks in the region. It underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to protecting civilian lives, denying terrorists freedom of action and supporting ground forces to ensure lasting peace across the country.”