Troops crush terrorist strongholds, kill kingpins in Zamfara, Sokoto

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have neutralised dozens of terrorists, including notorious kingpins, in Zamfara and Sokoto states.

The military offensive conducted between February 1 and 10, 2025, has reportedly weakened terrorist networks and restored a sense of security to affected communities.

The Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre, Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, Operation Fansan Yamma, said, “Among those eliminated were high-profile terrorist leaders Kachalla Na Faransa, Dogon Bakkwalo, Auta Gobaje, and Dan Mai Dutsi. The fierce battles took place in Shinkafi and Zurmi Local Government Areas (LGA) of Zamfara State, as well as Isa LGA of Sokoto State.

“Military operations targeted and dismantled over 40 terrorist hideouts, including those in Tungar Fulani, Unguwar Goga, Gangara Hill, and Gidan Maji.

“The operations also led to the seizure of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, preventing further attacks on innocent civilians. In addition, troops rescued dozens of kidnapped victims, providing relief to families that had been living in fear.”

The spokesman, in a statement made available on Wednesday, further reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to continuing the offensive against terrorism in the Northwest region and parts of Niger State.

He urged the public to provide intelligence on fleeing terrorists, including Bello Turji and his associates, assuring that all information would be treated with strict confidentiality.

“With this latest success, Operation Fansan Yamma has dealt a serious blow to terrorist operations in the region, bolstering ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in northwest Nigeria,” he added.