After Sustained NAF Airstrikes, Bandits Release Abducted Zamfara Monarch
In a decisive operation against criminal elements, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched precision airstrikes on armed bandits hiding in remote hill settlements within Yankuzo Ward of Tsafe Local Government Area, Zamfara State. The sustained offensive dealt a severe blow to the terrorists, forcing them to abandon their hideouts.
Credible intelligence and persistent aerial surveillance revealed a large concentration of armed bandits moving in groups with the intent to launch attacks on surrounding communities. Acting on this intelligence, the NAF, under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, executed coordinated strikes, neutralising several threats and disrupting the movement of the assailants.
On the same day of the air offensive, PRNigeria gathered that the abducted traditional ruler of Yankuzo, Alhaji Babangida Kogo, was released by his captors. The monarch had earlier been seized by motorcycle-riding bandits operating in the troubled axis.
The monarch’s release is believed to be a direct consequence of the pressure mounted by the military air campaign with the support of ground troops, which forced the terrorists to flee and abandon their captives. This marks a significant breakthrough in the fight against rural banditry in Zamfara.
It may be recalled that Alhaji Kogo’s father, the former District Head of Yankuzo, was brutally murdered by bandits along the same route two years ago—a tragic episode that underscored the persistent security challenges in the region.
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Meanwhile, ground troops, supported by local vigilante groups, have commenced follow-up clearance operations in the area, pursuing fleeing terrorists and securing nearby communities.
Security sources say the coordinated air and ground offensive signals a renewed commitment to restoring peace and stability to Zamfara and the broader North-West region.
Meanwhile, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) confirmed the precision strike on a terrorist gathering in Zamfara State, reportedly neutralizing dozens of terrorists and their collaborators.
According to a release from OPFY’s Media Information Officer, Captain David Adewusi, the strike was based on credible intelligence about a large assembly of terrorists from Katsina and various parts of Zamfara State.
The air interdiction resulted in the neutralization of several terrorists, with many more sustaining serious injuries. The wounded were reportedly taken by their accomplices to the nearby Yankuzo village for treatment.
In a follow-up operation on August 5, ground troops from 1 Brigade, Sector 2 OPFY, fought through a terrorist ambush to reach the village. Local sources have since confirmed that at least 30 terrorists were killed during the combined air and ground operations. The attack also left four terrorist collaborators from Kunchin Kalgo village with critical injuries.
The statement added that yhe successful operation has brought relief to the residents of Yankuzo, Tsafe, and surrounding communities, who have endured continuous harassment from the terrorists. OPFY has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring peace and security throughout Zamfara State and the North-West region.
By PRNigeria
