Esther Salifu
The Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, has prohibited the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, in the North East region.
The Air Component Commander, Air Commodore UU Idris, made the annoucement.
According to him, the aims 8s to address security concerns posed by unauthorized drone operations in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.
The military has expressed concerns over the use of drones by government agencies and private individuals without proper authorization, posing threats to military targets and critical national infrastructure.
Idris said: “The proliferation of drones for domestic and commercial purposes has led to serious security concerns… These concerns mainly stem from their possible use by non-state actors and criminal elements for subversive and offensive activities.
” Also, the non-state actors have perfected the use of drones against military targets and Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) as witnessed in other climes. Recently, there have been reports of drone sightings and unauthorized drone operations in the Theatre.
Recently, a passenger was intercepted with a drone at the Maiduguri helipad, prompting an investigation. The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has been tasked with monitoring and regulating aerial platform operations, including drones, to ensure safety and security in the region.
“The drone was confiscated, and an investigation is ongoing” he stated
The ban on drone operations in the North East region has been reiterated, with breaches viewed as serious offenses. The military has urged strict compliance with the regulation to ensure safety and security in the region.
He further disclosed that “The Air Component OPERATION HADIN KAI (AC OPHK) is saddled with the responsibility of monitoring and regulating aerial platform operations including aircraft and drones in the North East Theatre”
“This is aimed at deconfiicting the airspace to ensure safety and security for all operators in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa airspace”he stated .
