By Victor Akaa.
In a daring and meticulously executed operation, troops of the 1 Brigade, Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, under the auspices of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have successfully ned a notorious terrorist kingpin, Sani Rusu, in Zamfara State.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Coordinator Joint Media Coordination Centre Operation FANSAN YAMMA, in a statement on Monday explained that this significant achievement is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian military to eradicating the scourge of terrorism from the region.
He said the operation, which took place on January 4, 2025, was part of a broader effort to disrupt and dismantle terrorist networks in the area.
He noted that during the fighting patrol operations in Bamamu Village in Tsafe LGA, troops encountered fierce resistance from the terrorists, ultimately leading to the elimination of Sani Rusu.
According to him, this breakthrough is expected to significantly degrade the operational capabilities of the terrorist group, dealing a substantial blow to their morale and cohesion.
In a related development, the troops also conducted an ambush operation at Kwanar Jollof in Shinkafi LGA, neutralizing several terrorists and recovering a cache of arms, including one AK47 rifle, one G3 rifle, three magazines, three motorcycles and assorted ammunition.
The Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma has also been actively engaged in the battle against terrorism, conducting air strikes on terrorist enclaves in the region. On December 30, 2024, the Air Component launched a precision strike against terrorists converging between Fakai and Kware area of Shinkafi LGA, in response to intelligence indicating that the terrorists, led by Bello Turji, had convened a meeting in the area.
This was followed by another air strike on January 2, 2025, at Maikaman Rini area of Sububu Forest, in support of ground troops operations against Ibrahim Chumo’s camp.
The troops have also conducted offensive operations against Bello Turji’s camp in Chida area of Shinkafi on January 5, 2025, resulting in significant casualties among the terrorists, with several injured and their hideouts destroyed.
Aerial surveillance has confirmed the effectiveness of these operations, providing a significant boost to the morale of the troops and the local community.
Operation Fansan Yamma remains resolute in its commitment to neutralizing all terrorist threats across the Joint Task Force Theatre of Operation, assuring the public of its determination to maintain peace and security in the region.
The Joint Task Force encourages continued cooperation from the community towards the achievement of its mandate, recognizing that a collaborative effort is essential in the fight against terrorism.
As the Nigerian military continues to make strides in the battle against terrorism, it is clear that the tide is turning in favor of the government, and the people of Zamfara State can look forward to a more secure and peaceful future, Enugu Reporters noted.
