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In a decisive strike against banditry, the Nigerian Armed Forces executed a successful air-ground assault on January 10, 2025, targeting the notorious Fakai Hills stronghold of bandit leader Kachallah Bello Turji in Zamfara State.
The coordinated operation, codenamed Operation Fansan Yamma, neutralized scores of bandits, left many injured, and further destabilized Turji’s network.
According to local intelligence, the heavily armed bandits loyal to Turji suffered severe casualties. While the notorious leader’s whereabouts remain unknown, reports suggest several top commanders were injured, dealing a significant blow to the group’s operations.
The meticulously planned assault involved airstrikes guided by an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform, ensuring precision targeting.
Rockets and cannons were used to engage identified positions while fleeing bandits attempting to escape eastward were neutralized in follow-up strikes.
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The aircrew maintained real-time coordination with ground troops, ensuring maximum impact.
The operation’s success was marked by the liberation of several kidnapped victims and celebrations by locals in Zamfara State, who expressed relief and gratitude for the military’s efforts to restore peace.
Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information, reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to working with ground forces to eradicate criminal activities.
“Together, we will defeat all enemies threatening the security and prosperity of our great nation,” he stated.
Operation Fansan Yamma serves as a testament to the Nigerian Armed Forces’ resolve to secure the region and bring lasting peace to communities affected by banditry.
