In the wake of the ongoing military offensive against terrorists in the North West between January 20-21, 2025, the Nigerian Military has reported that troops from Operation Fansan Yamma have neutralized Aminu Kanawa, the second-in-command to notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji.
A statement from Defence Director Edward Buba on Wednesday revealed that the troops also inflicted severe injuries on key figures in Turji’s group, including Dosso (Bello Turji’s younger brother) and Danbokolo (one of his closest allies).
Additionally, several of Turji’s top commanders were neutralized, including Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe, among others.
The military also reported the neutralization of over 24 terrorists fleeing from Turji’s camp in the Gebe and Isa LGAs of Sokoto State, as well as around Gidan Rijiya in Shinkafi LGA of Zamfara State.
The statement said “Troops also neutralized another notable terrorist during the onslaught on Bello Turji’s Enclave around Fakai high ground. He is identified as Suleiman, and a loyalist of late notorious terrorist leader, Halilu Sububu. The late, Suleiman was leading a reinforcement team to rescue Bello Turji’s Camp which was in disarray, when he was eliminated during the firefight.
“The death of Bello Turji’s second in command, close allies, commanders and combatants is a significant blow to the terrorist network in the NW of the country, as well as their military and fighting capabilities. These group of terrorists were notorious for numerous kidnappings and terrorist attacks across the NW, particularly in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas in Zamfara and Sokoto States.”
The Baba said the troops are not relenting until these terrorists are completely destroyed, adding that its operations are aimed at creating an atmosphere of safety and security for all citizens.