Troops Neutralize Notorious Terrorist Kingpin, Recover Arms in Zamfara State

By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbl 

In a significant blow to terrorist activities in Zamfara State, troops of 1 Brigade, Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have neutralized a notorious terrorist kingpin, Sani Rusu, during a fighting patrol conducted on January 4, 2025, in Bamamu Village, Tsafe LGA.

According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Coordinator Joint Media Coordination Centre Operation Fansan Yamma, the troops encountered terrorists in the area, resulting in the neutralization of Sani Rusu. The operation also led to the recovery of one AK47 rifle, one G3 rifle, ammunition, magazines, and three motorcycles.

In a separate operation, the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma conducted airstrikes on terrorists converging between Fakai and Kware area of Shinkafi LGA on December 30, 2024. The airstrikes were launched in response to intelligence indicating that terrorists, led by Bello Turji, had convened a meeting in the area.

Further airstrikes were conducted on January 2, 2025, at Maikaman Rini area of Sububu Forest, targeting the camp of terrorist kingpin Ibrahim Chumo. The troops also conducted offensive operations against Bello Turji's camp in Chida area of Shinkafi on January 5, 2025.

Aerial surveillance revealed that the terrorists suffered significant casualties during these operations, with several terrorists injured and their hideouts destroyed. Operation Fansan Yamma remains committed to neutralizing all terrorist threats across the Joint Task Force Theatre of Operation and assures the public of its determination to maintain peace and security in the region.