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ZAMFARA STATE, Nigeria (CHATNEWSTV) — A series of airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) over the weekend targeted armed groups wreaking havoc across Zamfara State, leaving collateral damage in its wake, military sources confirmed.
The operation, conducted on Friday and Saturday, aimed to neutralize bandits and dismantle their strongholds. Reports from PRNigeria indicate that suspected Lakurawa terrorists advanced toward Bagega village in Anka Local Government Area (LGA), while another faction aligned with notorious bandit leader Turji attempted to infiltrate Tsafe.
Acting on intelligence, NAF jets struck the bandits as they retreated toward remote areas in the Maradun and Zurmi axes. The airstrikes were bolstered by ground troops and local vigilantes, who inflicted significant casualties.
“We neutralized nearly 60 terrorists in coordinated operations with ground troops,” a defense intelligence source told PRNigeria. “Three of Turji’s top commanders were eliminated, and many who attempted to flee were intercepted.”
Ground forces reported notable success in Fakai, Shinkafi LGA, and Tsafe, where several bandits were killed. However, some local vigilantes pursuing the bandits were caught in the crossfire, leading to injuries and deaths.
Injured vigilantes were evacuated to healthcare facilities in Kaura Namoda, Zurmi, and Kaya for treatment.
Bandits Relocate to Sokoto State
Amid the offensive, prominent bandit warlords and their foot soldiers abandoned hideouts in Shinkafi LGA’s forest, relocating to the Surbudu Forest in Isa LGA of Sokoto State. The movement has raised concerns about potential regrouping.
Seven kidnapped victims escaped from camps linked to Turji’s syndicate during the operation. “We are still pursuing Turji and his group, and their end is near,” the source added.
Military Vows Continued Pressure
Lt. Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, spokesperson for Operation Fansan Yamma, stated that troops would persist in their pursuit of terrorists.
“We are steadfast in eradicating these threats and restoring peace to affected communities,” Abdullahi said in a press release, urging bandit leaders to surrender unconditionally.
The operation underscores the Nigerian government’s resolve to curb banditry and restore security to Zamfara State and surrounding regions.
