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In a decisive show of strength, Nigerian troops have hoisted the national flag in former bandit strongholds in Zamfara State, marking a significant victory in the ongoing fight against insurgency.
Soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s Operation FANSAN successfully seized control of the notorious Tungan Fulani Hills two days ago. The operation resulted in the death of over 50 terrorists, dealing a severe blow to criminal networks operating in the region.
Among those neutralized were key commanders affiliated with notorious bandit leaders Bello Turji and Sani Mai Nasara, also known as Sani Black.
In a separate major offensive under Operation FANSAN YANMA, part of the TSAFTADAJI III – Phase 2 campaign, Nigerian troops neutralized an additional 44 bandits and wounded more than 25 others in coordinated attacks across multiple locations in Zamfara.
Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama reported that the operation, which commenced on February 7, 2025, was a three-pronged assault targeting terrorist hideouts in the Mashema general area—an infamous stronghold for armed bandits and insurgents.
The offensive, spearheaded by troops from the 1 Brigade Special Forces with aerial support from the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YANMA (OPFY), began at 0800 hours. Team 1 advanced through several fortified terrorist enclaves, clearing key positions in Kashabawa, Bwarare, and Zaki before reaching Sakarawa Hill.
Upon arrival at Sakarawa Hill, troops faced fierce resistance from insurgents entrenched in defensive positions. Intelligence reports indicated that the terrorists had planted improvised explosive devices (IEDs) along key routes. In response, the troops executed a strategic flanking maneuver to evade the explosives while engaging the enemy.
A combined ground and air assault was launched, with the Air Component of OPFY targeting terrorist positions and inflicting heavy casualties. Despite the successful elimination of numerous insurgents, troops were unable to fully secure the high ground due to extensive landmines at the base of the hill. Aggressor aircraft returned for a second airstrike, neutralizing additional terrorists.
In another phase of the operation, troops advancing toward Badarawa encountered resistance but managed to clear multiple terrorist hideouts along their route.
Among the 44 terrorists killed were key commanders linked to notorious bandit leaders Bello Turji and Sani Black. The high-profile figures eliminated include Sanni Bammuwa, Kachallah Auta (former deputy to Sani Black), Audu Gajere, Kabiru Jangeru, and Dan-Kane, the son of Audu Jabbi.
