By Victor Akaa.
In a daring and meticulously executed operation, the Armed Forces of Nigeria has dealt a crushing blow to banditry in Zamfara State, leaving scores of bandits eliminated and notorious leader, Kachallah Bello Turji, with an uncertain fate.
Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Director Public Relations and Information, NAF, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday noted the coordinated air-ground assault, which took place on January 10, 2025, at Fakai Hills, was a masterclass in military strategy and precision, with air strikes and synchronized ground assaults working in tandem to devastating effect.
Air Vice Marshal Akinboyewa noted that the operation, code-named FANSAN YAMMA, was the culmination of meticulous planning and intelligence gathering, with real-time coordination from an Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance platform overhead ensuring accurate target correlation.
He said, the identified targets were swiftly engaged using rockets and cannons in multiple passes, delivering devastating blows to the enemy.
According to him, the aircrew maintained visual and radio contact with the ground troops, allowing for seamless coordination and maximum impact.
The statement further explained that bandits, loyal to Turji, attempted to flee eastward of the hill, but were met with further engagements that successfully eliminated additional targets.
Reports say, the operation’s success has been met with widespread celebrations from locals in Zamfara State, who expressed relief and gratitude for the operation’s positive impact.
In a heartening outcome, several kidnapped victims were also freed, bringing hope to many families affected by the banditry.
The Nigerian Air Force has reiterated its unwavering commitment to coordinating with ground forces to eradicate all forms of criminality in the country. With this operation, the Armed Forces of Nigeria has sent a clear message that it will not tolerate any form of banditry or criminality, and that it will do everything in its power to protect the security and wellbeing of its people.
As the nation continues to grapple with the challenges of insecurity, operations like FANSAN YAMMA serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us that with determination, strategy, and courage, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges, Enugu Reporters noted.
