In Zamfara state Nigeria Air Force and Army Crush Bandit Strongholds

Zamfara State has recorded a significant victory in the fight against banditry as a joint operation by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Nigerian Army’s ground troops dismantled bandit strongholds in Shinkafi and Tsafe Local Government Areas. The mission, part of Operation Fansan Yamma, has dealt a severe blow to the criminal networks terrorizing the region, with several bandits neutralized, kidnapped victims rescued, and key leaders forced into hiding.

Coordinated Air-Ground Assault Decimates Fakai Hills Bandit Camps

The offensive commenced on January 10, 2025, with a daring assault on bandit enclaves in the Fakai Hills of Shinkafi Local Government Area of zamfara state. Intelligence reports confirmed the presence of notorious bandit leaders, including Kachallah Bello Turji, whose criminal activities have wreaked havoc across Zamfara State.

The operation began with aerial reconnaissance by NAF aircraft, which identified scores of bandits within their stronghold. Precision airstrikes targeted the camps, using rockets and cannons, leaving over 25 bandits neutralized and several others gravely injured. The aircrew observed surviving bandits fleeing the area in disarray, abandoning weapons and motorcycles. This set the stage for ground troops to move in and consolidate gains. Soldiers recovered stolen property, destroyed bandit camps, and rescued kidnapped victims, bringing a measure of relief to terrorized communities.

Local sources reported that the assault inflicted heavy casualties on bandits loyal to Bello Turji. While Turji’s exact location remains unknown, the operation’s impact has forced him and other infamous leaders, such as Ado Aleiro and Dan Isihu, into hiding.

Bandit Leaders on the Run as Troops Intensify Pressure

The operation’s success has placed significant pressure on bandit networks, with many leaders fleeing their bases to evade capture. Ado Aleiro, another notorious bandit leader, has retreated to a remote village in Eastern Tsafe, specifically in the Asaula area, where he reportedly continues to shift locations to avoid detection by security forces.

Meanwhile, Dan Isihu, a close ally of Aleiro and a kingpin responsible for extorting N172 million from 25 villages, encountered the Nigerian Army during a strategic ambush along the Kyaware road. The engagement led to a heavy firefight, further depleting the bandits’ ranks and disrupting their operations in the area. Isihu’s escape underscores the growing disarray among bandit leaders as they face unrelenting military pressure.

Zamfara state Community Relief Amid Collateral Damage

While the military operation has brought significant relief to affected communities, there are concerns about collateral damage. Reports indicate that some civilian properties in the Fakai Hills were inadvertently affected during the aerial strikes. Local leaders have called for more targeted operations to minimize civilian losses while maintaining the momentum against banditry.

The Nigerian military, however, emphasized its commitment to precision operations and community safety. The rescue of multiple victims and the disruption of notorious bandit networks mark a major milestone in restoring peace to Zamfara State. As operations continue, the military aims to capture remaining leaders and dismantle the infrastructure supporting banditry across the region.

This collaborative success by the Nigerian Air Force and ground troops demonstrates a robust approach to addressing the security crisis, providing hope for a safer Zamfara and a stronger Nigeria. Nigerian Military Repel Deadly Bandit Attack in Tungar Kara

The Zamfara State military operation has achieved a significant breakthrough in combating banditry, following a coordinated response to a violent raid in Tungar Kara, Maradun Local Government Area. Notorious bandits, led by a feared criminal identified as Sale from Gidan Waya, launched an assault targeting Gidan Kara with the aim of abducting residents. In collaboration with the Zamfara state Community Protection Guard (ZCPG), troops swiftly mobilized to confront the attackers.

The operation resulted in the neutralization of nine bandits, the seizure of their motorcycles, and the recovery of multiple firearms. Despite this success, the community vigilantes sustained casualties during the intense confrontation. Following the initial clash, the bandits retreated into the bush, only to regroup and launch a second wave of attack after 40 minutes. The resilience of the joint forces prevented further escalation, but the bandits attempted to escape with kidnapped victims.

Air Strikes Rescue Kidnapped Victims Amid Collateral Damage

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under Operation Fansan Yamma, played a crucial role in thwarting the bandits’ escape during the second engagement. Air surveillance identified the criminals fleeing with abductees, prompting an aerial offensive. The strikes compelled the bandits to abandon the victims and retreat into the forest. The air intervention, however, reportedly resulted in some civilian casualties, raising concerns over collateral damage during high-stakes rescue missions.

According to a member of the ZCPG, who chose to remain anonymous due to lack of authorization to speak officially, “We killed nine of the bandits and seized their motorcycles and rifles. The NAF intervention prevented them from escaping with the victims. Unfortunately, we also lost some of our men during the strike.” Despite the challenges, the military’s swift actions ensured the safe release of the captives and restored calm to the community.

Authorities Urge Vigilance as Military Intensifies Efforts Against Bandit Leaders in Zamfara State
In the aftermath of the operation, security authorities have called on community leaders and residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities. The leadership of Operation Fansan Yamma has also issued a stern warning to bandit leaders and their networks, urging them to surrender and embrace peace or face relentless military action.

Key figures such as Bello Turji, Ado Allero, and Dan Isihu, who have evaded capture, remain primary targets in the ongoing crackdown. The Armed Forces have reiterated their commitment to neutralizing all criminal elements and restoring lasting security to Zamfara State. Residents have expressed cautious optimism, urging the government to sustain military operations and strengthen community protection efforts to prevent a resurgence of banditry.

This operation underscores the complexities of tackling banditry in Nigeria, where collaborative efforts between security forces and local vigilantes remain vital in ensuring regional stability.