The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) continues its relentless offensive against terrorist elements in Kaduna State, with recent airstrikes successfully destroying a key logistics base located in the Yadi Forest, Giwa Local Government Area. This operation, conducted under Operation WHIRL PUNCH (OPWP), marks another significant milestone in the fight against armed terrorists threatening security in the region.
According to a statement released by Group Captain Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, the strike was carried out following reliable intelligence reports indicating a large presence of terrorists and their stockpile of weapons in Yadi Forest. The forest had been identified as a logistics hub controlled by Kadade Gurgu, a notorious terrorist kingpin and close ally of Dogo Gide, both of whom have been linked to several violent operations in Northern Nigeria.
The airstrike was initiated after intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions confirmed that the location was being used to shelter terrorists and their motorcycles. These reports further revealed that Gurgu had been providing refuge to other high-profile terrorist leaders who had fled military operations in Sokoto and Zamfara States.
Acting on this intelligence, the NAF air component deployed aircraft equipped with ISR platforms to engage the target. Initially, the area appeared uninhabited, but as the aircraft approached, several terrorists were seen fleeing from their hideout. This led to a successful engagement of the target, with precise hits igniting a massive fire that engulfed the facility, sending thick black smoke into the air.
Local informants and independent sources later confirmed that the logistics base was completely destroyed in the attack, with numerous terrorists killed as a result.
The success of this operation underscores the ongoing commitment of the Nigerian Air Force to eradicate terrorism in Kaduna State and its environs. NAF has pledged to maintain the pressure on terrorist groups, working in tandem with ground forces to ensure that no safe havens exist for criminals. Through increased situational awareness, regular patrols, and targeted air interdictions, NAF aims to decimate the operational capabilities of these terrorist groups.
As part of its broader strategy, the Nigerian Air Force is collaborating closely with other military branches to dominate the battlespace in the Northwest and North Central regions, with a focus on flushing out all forms of criminal activity.
This airstrike is part of a larger campaign aimed at stabilizing the northern regions of Nigeria, where terrorist groups and bandits have wreaked havoc on communities. Through coordinated military efforts like Operation WHIRL PUNCH, Nigeria’s security forces are actively working to dismantle the logistical networks that sustain these groups, making it increasingly difficult for them to operate freely.
NAF’s use of cutting edge ISR technology in these operations highlights the importance of real-time intelligence and precision in modern counterterrorism efforts. By targeting key logistical and operational bases, the Nigerian military is crippling the ability of terrorist groups to resupply, regroup, and launch further attacks.
The destruction of the terrorist logistics base in Kaduna is another victory in the ongoing fight against terrorism in Nigeria. The Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with ground forces, is committed to sustaining this momentum to ensure lasting peace and security in the region. Through continued intelligence gathering, surveillance, and coordinated air and ground operations, the military aims to completely eliminate the terrorist threat and restore stability to the affected areas.