The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has carried out a major offensive against terrorists in Zamfara State, striking their hideout in Sauri, Tsafe Local Government Area, and eliminating scores of fighters.

The coordinated airstrikes — which also destroyed key structures and logistics hubs — are expected to significantly weaken the operational capacity of the criminal elements in the region.

The operation took place just 24 hours after the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, announced the deployment of additional troops and directed security agencies to intensify action against armed groups across the state.

In a statement issued on Saturday, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the strikes were conducted on November 14 following “comprehensive intelligence and surveillance” that confirmed heavy terrorist activity, including rustled livestock hidden in a high-ground enclave used as both a defensive base and logistics centre.

Acting on the intelligence, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA executed multiple precision strikes on identified locations. Surviving terrorists who attempted to escape into nearby vegetation were tracked and neutralised.

“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,” the statement read.

Ejodame added that the operation reflects the renewed directive of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, to “find them, hunt them down, and protect our people.”

He said the latest air offensive underscores the unwavering commitment of the Joint Task Force and the NAF to deny terrorists safe havens, bolster security in Zamfara, and support the broader national effort to restore lasting peace across the North West.