NAF jets bombard bandits’ convoy in Kebbi, Zamfara, kill scores

From Molly Kilete, Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said its air component under Operation FANSAN YAMMA has dealt a devastating blow in a major offensive, killing scores of armed bandits migrating in a convoy along the Kebbi–Zamfara axis.

NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who made this known, said the strikes were based on real-time intelligence, which revealed the movement of close to 150 motorcycles in batches, each carrying about two armed terrorists near Yarbuga in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Ejodame, in a statement, said after positive identification confirming the hostile presence, NAF aircraft engaged the convoy with devastating accuracy.

He said 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 Thursday, July 10, 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.”