In a decisive operation, the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji conducted a successful airstrike on June 15, 2024, eliminating over 80 terrorists and destroying 45 motorcycles in Gidan Kare Village, Ruwan Godiya Ward, Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.
This action follows intelligence reports indicating that more than 100 terrorists were burning houses in a nearby settlement.
The operation commenced at approximately 8:30 PM when aerial reconnaissance observed several houses on fire and a village in chaos. A group of 12 motorcycles was spotted departing the village, heading toward a gathering point near Gidan Kare Village and Kuka Shidda Camp. This location was identified as a massing point for the terrorists, likely preparing for further attacks on nearby villages.
At precisely 9:40 PM, after obtaining necessary authorization, the airstrike was executed, resulting in the elimination of over 80 terrorists and the destruction of about 45 motorcycles. Some terrorists were seen fleeing or limping away from the site. Subsequent intelligence linked the terrorists to notorious kingpins Yusuf Yellow and his associate Rabe Imani.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, praised the Air Component and other security agencies for their efforts in diminishing the capabilities of terrorist elements in the Northwest. During a visit to the 213 Forward Operating Base in Katsina on June 17, 2024, he commended the team for their resoluteness and gallantry, emphasizing the importance of their continued dedication in the fight against terrorism and criminality in Nigeria.
“The successes by the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji, in synergy with other security agencies, have significantly contributed to regional security,” stated Air Marshal Abubakar.
In addition to lauding the airstrikes, Marshal Abubakar also commissioned new airfield facilities, including a taxiway link, operations and engineering building, and a sports complex. These enhancements aim to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of air operations within the Northwest.