NAF Obliterates Terrorist Logistics Hub in Southern Tumbuns Air Strike
The Nigerian Air Force has recorded another operational breakthrough in the ongoing counterterrorism campaign in the North-East, following a decisive air operation against insurgent infrastructure in the Southern Tumbuns area of Borno State.
The precision strike, carried out on 14 December 2025, targeted Dabar Masara, a remote but strategic enclave long suspected to be a support zone for terrorist groups operating within the Lake Chad basin. Military sources disclosed that the operation was the outcome of sustained intelligence gathering, which revealed unusual activities consistent with logistics coordination and weapons maintenance.
According to information from the Air Component of the Joint Task Force under Operation HADIN KAI, aerial surveillance over several days had detected persistent movement of armed fighters and the concealment of multiple vehicles beneath dense vegetation. These observations reinforced earlier intelligence assessments that the location was being used as a staging and supply point for terrorist operations.
On the day of the mission, real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance sorties were conducted to reconfirm the presence of hostile elements.
The surveillance feeds reportedly showed terrorists actively manoeuvring around the hidden vehicles, suggesting preparations for movement or attacks.
After thorough verification and clearance in line with established operational protocols, Nigerian Air Force strike assets were deployed to engage the targets.
The air strikes were executed with high precision to minimize collateral damage while achieving maximum operational effect. Subsequent battle damage assessment indicated that several vehicles used for logistics and mobility were completely destroyed.
In addition, multiple terrorist fighters present at the site were neutralised, significantly disrupting the group’s operational capacity in the area.
Military analysts note that the Southern Tumbuns has historically served as a difficult terrain for security operations due to its swampy landscape and limited ground access.
As a result, air power remains a critical tool in denying terrorists freedom of movement and dismantling their support networks.
The latest operation highlights the growing emphasis by the Nigerian Air Force on intelligence-led missions, combining surveillance and strike capabilities to achieve precise outcomes.
It also reflects broader efforts by the Armed Forces of Nigeria to sustain pressure on insurgent groups, degrade their logistics chains, and prevent regrouping.
Security authorities have reiterated their resolve to maintain aggressive air and ground operations until terrorist threats in the region are decisively curtailed.
The success of the Dabar Masara strike is expected to further weaken insurgent activities and bolster stability in affected communities across the North-East.
