Troops of 1 Brigade, Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, under Operation Fansan Yamma, have neutralized a notorious terrorist kingpin, Sani Rusu, during a fighting patrol in Zamfara State.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre, Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, revealed that the operation took place over the weekend at Bamamu Village in Tsafe Local Government Area (LGA).
Additionally, on the same day, troops conducted an ambush operation at Kwanar Jollof in Shinkafi LGA, based on credible intelligence regarding terrorist activities. Several terrorists were neutralized during the ambush, while others sustained 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 on December 30, 2024, the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma conducted airstrikes on terrorists converging between the Fakai and Kware areas of Shinkafi LGA. The airstrikes targeted a meeting convened by a notorious terrorist leader, Bello Turji, following intelligence reports.
Subsequently, on January 2, 2025, the Air Component launched additional airstrikes at the Maikaman Rini area of Sububu Forest to support ground operations targeting the camp of another terrorist kingpin, Ibrahim Chumo.
The troops also carried out offensive operations against Bello Turji’s camp in the Chida area of Shinkafi on January 5, 2025. Aerial surveillance confirmed significant casualties among the terrorists, with many injured and their hideouts destroyed.
Operation Fansan Yamma reiterated its commitment to eliminating terrorist threats and restoring peace and security in the region. The Joint Task Force called for continued cooperation from residents to aid in achieving its mandate.
The operation underscores the military’s determination to maintain safety and stability across the affected areas.