From: Rose Ejembi, Makurdi

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced a seven-day air surveillance operation code-named “OPERATION SMOKE OUT” in the state.

It was gathered that the exercise  was iaimed to put an end to the activities of wanted militia leader, Terwase Akwaza alias Ghana as well as the cattle rustling and incessant crises in Benue and Taraba states.

Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Tactical Air Command (TAC), AVM Nurudeen Balogun, while briefing newsmen about the operation, on Thursday, said the NAF was particularly concerned about the security situation in Benue State and some areas of Taraba State.

He said it was based on the development that the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar directed the seven-day operation to smoke out all those who are causing nuisance in the affected states.

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The AOC disclosed further that the operation which would be carried out in collaboration with other security agencies would take place both day and night for seven days and would be carried out in specific areas.

He listed Agatu and Zaki- Biam in Benue State as well as Wukari in Taraba State as the flash points for the operation and assured law abiding citizens of the affected areas of maximum security throughout the duration of the operation.

Also speaking, Governor Samuel Ortom, who was represented by the Special Adviser, Bureau for Sports and Youth Development, Prof. Jonathan Uever, expressed confidence in the operation and assured of his administrations support and cooperation to the NAF.

Four aircrafts have been deployed for the air operation.