Troops of the Nigerian Army have dealt a significant blow to the notorious terrorist network led by Bello Turji in the Northwest region of the country.
In an ongoing military operation codenamed Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops neutralized Turji’s second-in-command, Aminu Kanawa, (pictured) along with several key commanders and close allies.
According to a statement released by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, the operation was carried out between January 20 and 21, 2025, targeting terrorist hideouts across Sokoto and Zamfara states.
“Troops successfully neutralized Aminu Kanawa, the second-in-command to Bello Turji, and inflicted terminal injuries on Dosso (Bello Turji’s younger brother) and Danbokolo, one of Turji’s closest allies. Additionally, several commanders, including Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe, were neutralized,” the statement read.
The operation also resulted in the elimination of over 24 fleeing terrorists from Turji’s camp in the Gebe and Isa Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Sokoto State, as well as the Gidan Rijiya area in Shinkafi LGA, Zamfara State.
In a separate encounter around the Fakai high ground, troops neutralized Suleiman, a loyalist of the late terrorist leader Halilu Sububu. Suleiman, who was leading a reinforcement team to rescue Turji’s camp, was killed during a firefight.
Major General Buba described the neutralization of Turji’s second-in-command, his close allies, and several key commanders as a significant setback to the terrorist network.
He noted that the group had been responsible for numerous kidnappings and attacks across the Northwest, particularly in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni LGAs of Zamfara and Sokoto states.
“Troops remain resolute in their mission to completely dismantle these terrorist groups and create an atmosphere of safety and security for all citizens,” Buba added.