NAF airstrikes hit major bandit enclave in Zamfara, destroy hideouts

The Air Component of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) attached to the Joint Task Force of Operation FANSAN YAMMA has recorded a major breakthrough after executing precision air interdiction missions on 14 November 2025 at the Sauri bandit enclave in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

In a statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, revealed that the operation was launched following credible intelligence and surveillance reports confirming increased terrorist activity in the area. The intelligence also exposed large numbers of rustled livestock concealed across a fortified high-ground position used by the criminals for defence and logistics.

Guided by this intelligence, NAF aircraft conducted several precision strike runs on the marked locations, delivering direct hits that forced surviving terrorists to scatter into nearby bushes. They were then tracked and neutralised as they attempted to escape.

The statement reads: “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Air Component of the Joint Task Force of Operation FANSAN YAMMA has achieved a major operational breakthrough following precision air interdiction missions conducted on 14 November 2025 at the Sauri bandit camp in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

“The mission was undertaken after comprehensive intelligence and surveillance operations confirmed significant terrorist activity and rustled livestock concealed on a high-ground hideout used by the criminals as both a defensive position and a logistics hub. Acting on this intelligence, the Air Component executed multiple coordinated strike passes on the identified targets, achieving direct hits that dislodged surviving terrorists attempting to flee into surrounding vegetation, where they were subsequently tracked and effectively engaged.

“The successful mission resulted in the neutralisation of numerous terrorists and the destruction of critical structures and logistics points, significantly degrading the criminals’ operational capability in the area. This decisive action reinforces the commitment of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who has consistently pledged that the NAF will “find them, hunt them down, and protect our people.

” The operation underscores the unwavering resolve of the Joint Task Force and the NAF under Operation FANSAN YAMMA to deny terrorists safe havens, strengthen security in Zamfara State, and support wider national efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across the North West.”