Top bandit commanders have been killed in a series of airstrikes in Zamfara State, the Nigerian Air Force said on Sunday.
In a statement, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, said the strikes which were conducted in collaboration with ground troops left several other bandits injured.
Though Akinboyewa didn’t give an exact number of casualties, he said local intelligence reports confirmed that the bandits, loyal to notorious leader Kachallah Bello Turji, suffered heavy casualties.
He stated that despite the airstrikes, the whereabouts of notorious bandits leader, Kachallah Turji, remain unknown.
“Scores of bandits were neutralized, while many others, including some top commanders, sustained varying degrees of injuries,” he said.
“Sequel to the fierce engagement, Kachallah Turji’s whereabouts remain unknown, adding further pressure on his crumbling network.”
The NAF spokesman described the Operation Fansan Yamma as a well-coordinated air-ground assault, stressing that it underscored the armed forces’ unwavering resolve to restore peace and security to the region.
According to him, the operation was meticulously executed, with real-time coordination from an Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance platform overhead, ensuring accurate target correlation.
He noted that the bandits were observed fleeing eastward of the hill, in a desperate bid to escape, a move that prompted further engagements that successfully neutralized additional targets.
“The identified targets were swiftly engaged using rockets and cannons in multiple passes, delivering devastating blows to the enemy. The aircrew maintained visual and radio contact with the ground troops.
“This resounding success has been met with widespread celebrations from locals in Zamfara State, who expressed relief and gratitude for the operation’s positive impact. In a heartening outcome, several kidnapped victims were also freed, bringing hope to many families affected by the banditry.
“The Nigerian Air Force 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 wellbeing of our people, paving the way for the peace and prosperity of our Great Nation,” Akinboyewa added.
