Troops from 1 Brigade, Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have neutralized a notorious terrorist leader, Sani Rusu, in Zamfara state.
According to a statement issued on Monday by Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, the Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre for Operation Fansan Yamma, the operation took place over the weekend when troops carried out a fighting patrol in Bamamu Village, Tsafe Local Government Area.
On the same day, the statement reported that during an ambush operation based on reliable intelligence regarding terrorist activities at Kwanar Jollof in Shinkafi LGA, the troops neutralized several terrorists, with others sustaining fatal injuries.
The operation also led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one G3 rifle, eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, three magazines, and three motorcycles.
In a separate operation, the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma conducted airstrikes on terrorists gathering in the Fakai and Kware areas of Shinkafi LGA on December 30, 2024. The airstrikes were in response to intelligence indicating that terrorists, led by Bello Turji, were holding a meeting in the area.
Following this, on January 2, 2025, further airstrikes were carried out at the Maikaman Rini area of Sububu Forest to support ground troops’ operations against terrorist kingpin Ibrahim Chumo’s camp.
On January 5, 2025, troops also launched offensive operations against Bello Turji’s camp in the Chida area of Shinkafi. Aerial surveillance indicated that the terrorists suffered significant casualties, with several injured and their hideouts destroyed.
Operation Fansan Yamma reiterated its commitment to eliminating all terrorist threats across the Joint Task Force Theatre of Operation and assured the public of its dedication to maintaining peace and security in the region. The Joint Task Force also called for continued community cooperation to support its mission.