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Nigerian Air Force’s serial bombardment and combined ground assaults have eliminated several of bandits, belonging to Bello Turji at his stronghold on Fakai Hills in Zamfara.
Many others were also gravely injured.
AVM Olusola Akinboyewa, the Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), stated in Abuja on Sunday that the assault, conducted under Operation Fansan Yamma, on Friday, underscored the unwavering resolve of the Nigerian Armed Forces to restore peace and security to the region.
Akinboyewa said that local intelligence reports confirmed that the bandits, loyal to notorious leader Kachallah Bello Turji, suffered heavy casualties.
“Sequel to the fierce engagement, Kachallah Turji’s whereabouts remain unknown, adding further pressure on his crumbling network,” the statement read.
“The operation was meticulously executed, with real-time coordination from an Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance platform overhead, ensuring accurate target correlation.
“The identified targets were swiftly engaged using rockets and cannons in multiple passes, delivering devastating blows to the enemy.
“The aircrew maintained visual and radio contact with the ground troops.
“The bandits, in a desperate bid to escape, were observed fleeing eastward of the hill, prompting further engagements that successfully neutralized additional targets,” he said.
The NAF spokesman said that the resounding success had been met with widespread celebrations from locals in Zamfara, who expressed relief and gratitude for the operation’s positive impact.
He added that several kidnapped victims were also freed, bringing hope to many families affected by the banditry.
“The NAF has reiterated its unwavering commitment to coordinating with ground forces to eradicate all forms of criminality in the country.
“Together, we will defeat all enemies militating against the security of our territories and the wellbeing of our people, paving the way for the peace and prosperity of our Great Nation,” he added.
Meanwhile, NAF airstrikes on Saturday mistakenly hit operatives of the Zamfara State Community Protection Guard, ZSCPG, vigilantes, and some residents of Tungar Kara community in Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State, following a raid by bandits in the area.
It was gathered that the incident, which claimed, at least, 20 lives, occurred shortly after the bandits fled the scene.
It was also learnt that local vigilantes and residents, who had mobilised to defend their community, were caught in the strike.
The airstrike, which targeted the fleeing bandits, inadvertently struck the community, killing several people.
