Nigerian troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA have successfully neutralized 24 bandits, including seven high-ranking commanders linked to notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji.
The week-long operation, aimed at dismantling Turji’s operational network, was carried out in Gebe village, Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, as well as in parts of Shinkafi and Isa LGAs.
A counterterrorism and insurgency expert in the Lake Chad Basin, Zagazola Makama, disclosed the development on his X account on Wednesday.
Makama revealed that the operation was spearheaded by Special Forces of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade and the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Services, with support from precision airstrikes by the Air Components.
“Among the seven prominent commanders neutralized were: Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon Saniya, also known as Yafi Bahaushe,” Makama stated.
“These individuals were pivotal to Turji’s operations, coordinating attacks, managing logistics, and facilitating the movement of arms and supplies across the region. Their elimination deals a significant blow to the gang’s leadership and operational capabilities,” he added.
The offensive involved a series of ground engagements, including ambushes, search-and-destroy missions, and airstrikes guided by intelligence.
Security forces targeted bandit hideouts and camps notorious for their role in criminal activities, focusing on disrupting Turji’s logistics and operational flow.