On Saturday, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) confirmed the killing of top bandit commanders in a series of airstrikes in Zamfara State.
Sunday Telegraph reports that the strikes which were in collaboration with ground troops left several other bandits injured.
In a statement issued by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal, Olusola Akinboyewa, said “Scores of bandits were neutralized, while many others, including some top commanders, sustained varying degrees of injuries”.
He added that despite the success of the operation, the whereabouts of Bello Turji remain unknown, putting additional strain on his already weakening network.
The operation, part of Operation Fansan Yamma, was described as a meticulously planned air-ground assault, showcasing the armed forces’ commitment to restoring peace and stability to Zamfara.
Real-time coordination from an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform ensured precision strikes on identified targets.
During the assault, bandits were observed fleeing eastward from the Fakai Hills in a desperate attempt to escape.
Follow-up engagements neutralized additional targets, further weakening the group’s stronghold.
The NAF reaffirmed its dedication to sustained operations against criminal elements threatening the region’s security.
