NAF Helicopter Lands on Makurdi Farmland After Anti-Kidnap Operation

A Nigerian Air Force helicopter that landed on a farmland in Makurdi, Benue State, was returning from an operation against suspected kidnappers along the Enugu-Benue boundary, the NAF has said.

The helicopter landed on Wednesday at Utur Tse-Igboji community in Bar Council Ward, along the Welfare Quarters to Mopol 13 Ring Road in Makurdi.

According to the NAF, the aircraft had been deployed to provide close air support to ground troops during an operation targeting suspected kidnappers in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State, near the Enugu-Benue boundary.

NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operation successfully disrupted the activities of the suspected criminals and supported the advance of surface forces.

He said that after completing the mission, the pilot exercised professional discretion to make a precautionary landing about 10 nautical miles from the airfield while returning to base.

The NAF said the decision was consistent with established operational and safety procedures following combat missions. It added that the helicopter subsequently returned to base.

The incident occurred on Wednesday night and attracted attention after the aircraft was seen on the farmland in the Makurdi community.

The Air Force said the successful operation demonstrated its continued efforts to disrupt criminal activities and support ground forces in areas affected by insecurity.

The NAF also reaffirmed its commitment to coordinated air and ground operations aimed at protecting communities and denying criminal groups freedom of movement in affected areas