The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has disrupted suspected terrorist activity in Zamfara State following an armed reconnaissance mission conducted around the Bayarzaki River area.
The operation was carried out on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, after credible intelligence indicated the movement of suspected terrorists within the area.
Acting on the intelligence, the NAF deployed an A-Jet to conduct extensive surveillance over Bayarzaki River and surrounding locations, including Ruwan Rana, Sabli, Kada Daba, Kwana Maje, Nasarawa, Rafin Gero, Ramfashi and Mumuma Hill.
During the reconnaissance mission, further intelligence indicated the presence of suspected terrorists concealed south of the riverline.
The aircraft subsequently engaged the identified location from the air.
Following the engagement, no further movement was observed in the area as the aircraft maintained an aerial presence over the operational zone before safely returning to base.
The mission underscores the NAF’s continued use of intelligence-led airpower to identify, track and disrupt terrorist activities in support of ongoing security operations across the country.
The operation involved coordinated efforts by intelligence personnel, aircrew, mission planners, engineers, logistics personnel and other specialists to translate actionable intelligence into a timely air response.
Through sustained aerial surveillance and targeted responses to emerging threats, the NAF continues to support surface forces and restrict the freedom of movement of terrorist and other criminal elements operating in difficult-to-access areas.
The latest operation is particularly significant for communities in Zamfara and other parts of the North-West affected by terrorism, banditry and other forms of insecurity, as security forces intensify efforts to deny armed groups the ability to establish and sustain operational footholds.
The NAF’s continued presence in the air also provides critical intelligence and operational support to ground forces, enabling them to respond more effectively to emerging threats.
The Zamfara mission further demonstrates the importance of timely intelligence, persistent surveillance and coordinated air-ground operations in the ongoing effort to degrade terrorist networks and improve security across affected communities.
