The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed one of its armed helicopters to Takum, Taraba State to give support to the ground forces in the effort to maintain peace in the area.

Ina statement issued on Wednesday,NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Olatokunbo Adesanyasaid: “The deployment of the helicopter is also to deter warring communities within the area from further engaging in violent activities. The helicopter is already carrying out armed reconnaissance missions within the Mambilla Plateau and environs.”

News Expressrecalls that pockets of violence broke out recently around the Mambilla Plateau resulting in the loss of lives and property. The communal unrest between graziers and farmers subsequently led to the imposition of a curfew. It therefore became necessary to deploy NAF air assets towards maintaining peace and providing air cover for ground troops. So far, members of the communities have been observed to be going about their business in peace.

Adesanya disclosed that “another NAF helicopter will soon be deployed to Kafanchan, Kaduna State in support of the ground forces already working to maintain peace in the area. The helicopter will operate from a new NAF Forward Operating Base being established in Kafanchan, as part of the Federal Government’s efforts to ensure lasting peace in southern Kaduna State.”