Nigerian Air Force airstrikes near Mangoro in Niger state have reportedly killed well-known bandit leader Ali Kachalla near Mangoro in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State.
Known for his daring attacks, such as downing a Nigerian Air Force fighter jet in July 2021, Kachalla is one of the 19 bandit leaders that the Defence Headquarters listed as wanted in November 2021.
The Pucnch was able to receive a security report that stated that Kachalla attacked a Mangoro-based security force unit, forcing them to call in reinforcements from the Air Force.
According to the report, Kachalla and his friends used 11 motorcycles to flee the scene when the fighter planes arrived.
The report’s contents were articulated as follows: “Evidence strongly suggests that the notorious terrorist leader, Ali Kawaje, also known as Ali Kachalla, might have been taken out on December 10, 2023. The elimination purportedly occurred via airstrikes conducted by Nigerian Air Force aircraft in the vicinity of Mangoro, situated in Munya Local Government Area within Niger State.
Reliable sources indicate that Ali Kachalla instigated an assault on a security detachment positioned at Mangoro Community in Niger State’s Munya LGA. Swiftly responding to the distress call, aircraft under Operation Whirl Punch from the Nigerian Air Force mobilized to aid the embattled troops.
“During the event, Kachalla and his comrades were observed departing the scene where the operatives were stationed, riding 11 motorcycles. Unbeknownst to them, they were tracked to their hideout near Kopa Hills, where they sought refuge under thick tree cover.
“At that moment, the authorization for airstrikes was granted, executing swift and decisive measures that ensured substantial and effective damage on the terrorists.” The report disclosed that locals in the area confirmed that several terrorists, including Kachalla, were killed during the operation.
The report stated that intelligence obtained from locals and our informants in the area suggested that the strike killed a number of terrorists, including important figure Ali Kachalla. The NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, refused to comment when asked about the operation, saying that he had not gotten a brief about the airstrike.
