The Nigerian Armed Forces have delivered a significant blow to the notorious terrorist network led by Bello Turji in the Northwest region. In the ongoing military operation codenamed Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops successfully neutralized Turji’s second-in-command, Aminu Kanawa, along with several key commanders and close allies.
According to a statement from Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, the operation took place between January 20 and 21, targeting terrorist hideouts across Sokoto and Zamfara states.
“Troops have successfully neutralized Aminu Kanawa, Turji’s right-hand man, and inflicted critical injuries on his younger brother, Dosso, and one of Turji’s close associates, Danbokolo. In addition, several commanders, including Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe, were also neutralized,” the statement noted.
The operation resulted in the elimination of more than 24 fleeing terrorists from Turji’s camp in the Gebe and Isa Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Sokoto State, as well as in the Gidan Rijiya area of Shinkafi LGA, Zamfara State.
In a separate encounter near the Fakai high ground, troops neutralized Suleiman, a loyalist of the late terrorist leader Halilu Sububu. Suleiman was killed during a firefight while leading a reinforcement team to Turji’s camp.
Major General Buba emphasized that neutralizing Turji’s second-in-command, along with his close allies and key commanders, represents a significant setback for the terrorist network. He highlighted that the group has been responsible for numerous kidnappings and attacks across the Northwest, particularly in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni LGAs of Zamfara and Sokoto states.
“Troops remain resolute in their mission to dismantle these terrorist groups completely and to foster an atmosphere of safety and security for all citizens,” Buba stated.
