
Troops from the Nigerian Military, part of Operation Fansan Yamma in the Northwest, have killed Aminu Kanawa, the second-in-command to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji.
It was reported that both air and ground forces also severely injured Turji’s younger brother, Dosso, and a close ally, Danbokolo, during the ongoing assault. A few days ago, Turji’s son and several of his fighters were killed in clearance operations across the Shinkafi, Kagara, Fakai, Moriki, Maiwa, and Chindo regions.
Additionally, an elementary school in Zamfara State, used as a terrorist logistics base, was bombed by the air force, crippling their operations.
On Wednesday, Major-General Edward Buba, outgoing Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed the deaths of Turji’s key allies, saying the terrorist group was in disarray due to intense military pressure.
Among the commanders killed between January 20-21, 2025, were Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe.
Buba stated that Operation FANSAN YAMMA troops also killed more than 24 fleeing terrorists from Turji’s camp near Gebe and Isa Local Government Area in Sokoto, as well as Gidan Rijiya in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara.
He also revealed the death of Suleiman, a key figure and loyalist of the late terrorist leader Halilu Sububu, who was killed while leading a reinforcement team to Turji’s disorganized camp.
“The loss of Turji’s second-in-command, allies, and fighters is a severe blow to the terror network in the Northwest, significantly weakening their fighting capabilities,” Buba said. “These terrorists were responsible for numerous kidnappings and attacks, particularly in the Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni areas of Zamfara and Sokoto states.”
He concluded that the military would continue its operations until the terrorist groups are fully dismantled, ensuring safety and security for the people.
