In a recent operation targeting insurgent groups in Northwest Nigeria, the Nigerian military launched a series of airstrikes in Zamfara State, successfully neutralizing 20 militants.
The airstrikes were part of ongoing efforts to curb the activities of armed groups destabilizing the region.
According to military sources, intelligence reports indicated the presence of a heavily armed militant camp in a remote area of Zamfara, prompting swift action.
In a statement, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye said that “this was achieved in a continued effort to combat terrorism effectively, a precise air interdiction operation was executed targeting known terrorist elements within the Maraya Village.”
According to him, the strategic move was a crucial step in ensuring the safety and security of the region against terrorist’s threats.
Subsequent to the air strike conducted at about 01:11am on 01 June 2025, troops of 1 Brigade stationed at Forward Operating Base Magami were swiftly deployed to the Maraya/Wabi vicinity in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
General Kangye said that “their primary objective was to conduct a comprehensive battle damage assessment of the air strike and execute a thorough exploitation to gather crucial intelligence.”
He noted that on the spot assessment of the air strike confirmed 20 terrorists killed, underscoring the effectiveness of the operation in countering the threat posed by the terrorist elements in the area.
Regrettably, 2 members of the vigilante team that took part in the operation lost their lives while 2 others got injured inadvertently during the air strike.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa has commensurate with the families of the 2 vigilantes who died in action and wishes the other 2 wounded speedy recovery.
Moving forward, the Armed Forces of Nigeria are committed to fostering stronger collaboration with local security entities and stakeholders to bolster coordination and prevent similar mishaps from occurring.
“Continuous efforts are underway to mitigate the risk of recurrence”, he added.
This proactive approach aims to enhance overall effectiveness and minimize unintended consequences in future operations.