The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says airstrikes and synchronised ground assaults have killed scores of bandits, leaving many others wounded in kingpin Bello Turji’s stronghold at Fakai Hills in Zamfara State....Read Full Article >>➤
There were reports that 16 civilians were killed during an airstrike targeting insurgents in Tungar Kara, Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara state. Reports from the community alleged that 16 residents, including members of the Zamfara Community Protection Guard (ZCPG) and vigilantes, were mistakenly killed during the operation.
However, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, AVM Olusola Akinboyewa, in a statement on Sunday, January 12, 2025, said the airstrikes, conducted under Operation Fansan Yamma on Friday, January 10, was a “devastatingly well-coordinated air-ground assault” targeting bandits in Zamfara State.
Akinboyewa stated that the airstrikes underscored the resolve of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to restore peace and security to the region.
He said local intelligence reports confirmed that the bandits, loyal to notorious leader Kachallah Bello Turji, suffered heavy casualties.
According to him, scores of bandits were neutralised, while many others, including some top commanders, sustained varying degrees of injuries.
The NAF spokesman said: “Sequel to the fierce engagement, Kachallah Turji’s whereabouts remain unknown, adding further pressure on his crumbling network.
“The operation was meticulously executed, with real-time coordination from an Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance platform overhead, ensuring accurate target correlation.
“The identified targets were swiftly engaged using rockets and cannons in multiple passes, delivering devastating blows to the enemy.
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“The aircrew maintained visual and radio contact with the ground troops.
“The bandits, in a desperate bid to escape, were observed fleeing eastward of the hill, prompting further engagements that successfully neutralized additional targets.”
Akinboyewa noted that the success had been met with widespread celebrations from locals in Zamfara State, who he said expressed relief and gratitude for the operation’s positive impact.
He added that several kidnapped victims were also freed, bringing hope to many families affected by banditry in Zamfara State.
Akinboyewa stated: “The NAF has reiterated its unwavering commitment to coordinating with ground forces to eradicate all forms of criminality in the country.
“Together, we will defeat all enemies militating against the security of our territories and the wellbeing of our people, paving the way for the peace and prosperity of our Great Nation.”
Meanwhile, the Zamfara State chapter of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has commiserated with the government and people of the state on the “accidental airstrike”, leading to the death of residents at Tungar Kara in Maradun LGA.
The Zamfara APC Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris, in a statement on Sunday, described the incident as unfortunate.
NAF airstrikes kill bandits in Zamfara
Idris said: “The Zamfara APC Chairman, Alhaji Tukur Danfulani wishes to extend heartfelt condolences to the government and people of the state over the accidental airstrike on Saturday, December 11.
“We mourn the gallant sacrifices of our people who paid the supreme price while chasing bandits who have made life unbearable for them.
“We pray to Allah to accept their martyrdom and accommodate them in Jannah and give their families, the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.”
He said the leadership of the Zamfara APC also commended President Bola Tinubu for showing commitment to ending banditry in the state and the North-west region.
He added: “We are happy with the ongoing efforts by Operation Fansar Yamma that led to the killing of over 25 terrorists at their hideouts, under the control of notorious bandit’s kingpin, Bello Turji in Fakai community in Shinkafi council.
“It is quite impressive that troops of Fasan Yamma are taking the fights now to the bandits’ hideouts, making them flee from the areas.
“This operational strategy should be sustained and supported by all peace-loving citizens.” ...Read Full Article >>➤
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