The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified air operations in support of Operation Rescue Finale with a view to creating the enabling environment for its ground troops to undertake final onslaught against the remnants of Boko Haram terrorists in the Sambisa Forest.

Group Captain Ayodele Famuyiwa, NAF Director of Public Relations in a statement on Thursday, said the latest air operations involve air interdiction and armed reconnaissance by NAF fighter jets and helicopter gunships against Boko Haram terrorists’ camps and major hideouts to decimate the capability of the insurgents as well as make it difficult for them to assemble or pose any serious threat to Nigerian troops during advance.

The NAF Spokesman said: “So far, a number of Boko Haram terrorists’ vehicles, fuel depots and other logistics items have been destroyed. The NAF also provides air cover for troops during advance to prevent ambush while leaflets are dropped from helicopters in furtherance of the psychological operation to persuade those willing to lay down their arms and embrace peace, as well as those trapped in the affected areas, to avail themselves the opportunity to reunite with their families and live peaceful life again.

“In a similar development, the NAF has carried out attacks on a number of camps and hideouts used by cattle rustlers and armed bandits in Gidan Garba and Burwaye areas of Zamfara State. The camps were strafed by Alpha Jets and Mi-24 attack helicopter following intelligence report from NAF ISR platforms.

“The L-39ZA aircraft, which were recently reconfigured to carry arms, also participated in the operation. The air strike is intended to pave way for ground forces to move into the affected areas with a view to dislodging the bandits. Other hideouts used by the armed bandits in the State are under continuous surveillance for possible air strike.”

•Photo shows a NAF Fighter Jet on a counter-insurgency operation.

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