According to Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, the Director of Public Relations and Information, the successful air strike that took out bandits was achieved on Monday, April 22, 2019, was carried out by the Air Task Force (ATF) who backed up the ground troops.

“The Air Task Force (ATF) for Operation DIRAN MIKIYA has neutralized no fewer than 10 armed bandits at Sububu Forest area in Zamfara State.

“This was achieved yesterday, 22 April 2019, while the ATF was responding to a request for close air support by ground troops of Sector 7 Area of Responsibility of Operation SHARAN DAJI, who had come into contact with armed bandits in Shinkafi Local Government Area (LGA).”

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According to Daramola, the ATF dispatched two Alpha Jets and an attack helicopter.

He revealed that the bandits also fought back by shooting at the fighter jets who now engaged, killing 10 of them, while others escaped with injuries.

“Accordingly, the ATF dispatched 2 Alpha Jets and an attack helicopter to provide the needed support and also conduct armed reconnaissance over identified locations in Shinkafi LGA as well as Sububu, Dumburum Forests and its environs.

“At Sububu Forest, one of the Alpha Jets spotted a group of armed bandits, who fired at the aircraft with their rifles, whilst running for cover. The Alpha Jet engaged the bandits, neutralizing no fewer than 10 of them while others escaped with injuries.

The Airforce spokesperson assured citizens of Zamfara State of the force’s commitment in ensuring peace is restored in the state.