Troops Deal Heavy Blow to Terrorist Network, Neutralize Bello Turji's Deputy and Key Allies
The Nigerian Armed Forces have recorded a major success in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the Northwest, eliminating Aminu Kanawa, identified as the deputy leader of the notorious terrorist group led by Bello Turji. Several top commanders and key associates of the group were also neutralized in the offensive.
A statement by Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed that the operation, known as Operation FANSAN YAMMA, took place from January 20 to 21, targeting hideouts in Sokoto and Zamfara states.
“Security forces successfully took down Aminu Kanawa, Turji’s second-in-command, and inflicted serious injuries on Dosso, Turji’s younger brother, along with Danbokolo, a close ally. Other prominent figures within the group, including Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe, were also eliminated,” the statement revealed.
During the operation, more than 24 insurgents attempting to escape from Turji’s camp in Sokoto’s Gebe and Isa Local Government Areas (LGAs), as well as Gidan Rijiya in Shinkafi LGA of Zamfara State, were neutralized by troops.
Additionally, troops engaged in a confrontation at the Fakai high ground, where they eliminated Suleiman, a known loyalist of the deceased terrorist leader Halilu Sububu. Suleiman was reportedly leading reinforcements to support Turji’s faction when he was taken down.
Major General Buba emphasized that the elimination of these key figures marks a significant disruption to Turji’s network, which has been responsible for a wave of kidnappings and violent attacks across communities in Zamfara and Sokoto states, particularly in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni LGAs.
“Our forces are fully committed to dismantling these criminal elements and ensuring a safer environment for the people,” Buba stated.
The military has intensified operations across the region in a bid to curb escalating security threats and restore peace to affected communities.
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