Troops Eliminate Notorious Terrorist Kingpin in Zamfara

Nigerian troops have successfully neutralized a notorious terrorist kingpin in Zamfara, marking a significant victory in ongoing security operations.

Troops from Operation Fansan Yamma have successfully eliminated Sani Rusu, a notorious terrorist leader, along with several other militants in various operations within Zamfara State.

Lt.-Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, serving as the Coordinator for the Joint Media Coordination Centre related to Operation Fansan Yamma, verified the operations in a statement issued on Monday, January 6th, 2025.

Abdullahi reported that on January 4, troops from the 1 Brigade of Sector 2 in the Joint Task Force North West carried out a combat patrol to Bamamu Village in Tsafe Local Government Area. During this intense operation, they encountered and eliminated Rusu.

On the same day, troops conducted a separate operation by setting up an ambush at Kwanar Jollof in Shinkafi LGA after receiving reliable intelligence regarding terrorist activities in the area.

The statement reported that during the operation, several terrorists were eliminated and others suffered fatal injuries. The troops also seized one AK-47 rifle, a G3 rifle, eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, three magazines, and three motorcycles.

He stated that the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma has increased its strikes on terrorist strongholds, targeting groups led by notorious kingpins Bello Turji and Ibrahim Chumo.

On December 30, 2024, the Air Component executed precision airstrikes targeting a terrorist gathering located between the Fakai and Kware regions in Shinkafi LGA. Intelligence reports indicated that Turji and his fighters were assembled in the area.

The statement indicated that on January 2, 2025, a subsequent operation involved airstrikes targeting Maikaman Rini in Sububu Forest to support ground troops advancing towards Chumo’s camp.

On January 5, the troops initiated an offensive against Turji’s camp in Chida, located within Shinkafi LGA. This operation led to considerable casualties and resulted in the destruction of hideouts.

Abdullahi reaffirmed Operation Fansan Yamma’s dedication to eliminating terrorist threats and bringing peace back to the region.

He added, “The Joint Task Force is grateful for the ongoing support from local communities and encourages further collaboration to fulfill its mission.”