Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have successfully eliminated 24 bandits, including seven high-profile commanders linked to the notorious Bello Turji gang, during an intensive week-long offensive targeting banditry in the North West.

Reports from Zagazola Makama indicate that the operation, led by Special Forces from the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade and the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Services, focused on dismantling bandit hideouts. The latest success was recorded on January 22, 2025, in Gebe village, located in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

According to intelligence sources, the offensive targeted operational hubs and camps in Shinkafi and Isa LGAs—areas notorious for harboring criminal elements. The campaign involved ground troops, precision airstrikes from the Air Components, and intelligence-driven raids.

Among the seven prominent commanders neutralized were Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon Saniya (also known as Yafi Bahaushe). These individuals were instrumental in coordinating attacks, managing logistics, and facilitating the movement of weapons and supplies for Turji’s network. Their elimination represents a severe disruption to the gang’s leadership and operational structure.

The operation featured sustained engagements, including ambushes, search-and-destroy missions, and strategic airstrikes. Weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles used for criminal activities were also recovered during the operation.

In recent months, the Nigerian Armed Forces have intensified their efforts against bandits amid escalating incidents of kidnappings, killings, and attacks on communities across Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, and Birnin Kebbi.

The recent successes, including the killing of Turji’s seven commanders, the dismantling of key hideouts, and the confirmed death of his son, mark a critical turning point in the fight against banditry in the Northwest.

Reports suggest Turji’s loyalists have been relocating injured fighters, while Turji himself is believed to have fled to Maradun LGA. These developments underscore the impact of the military’s intensified offensives, leaving Turji’s operations severely weakened and his ability to regroup diminished.

The destruction of Turji’s Fakai base is both symbolic and operationally significant, undermining his control over his network. His reliance on a former rival, Jummo Smally, for refuge further highlights his desperation and diminishing options.

Additionally, the surrender of key allies like Abu Radde and Umar Black in Katsina State suggests a ripple effect of the sustained military pressure. This could lead other loyalists to consider surrender, further isolating Turji.

While Turji’s network is showing signs of collapse, complete eradication will require consistent military pressure. Leaders like Turji often exploit terrain and tribal alliances to survive. However, his forced relocation and the loss of key fighters and resources indicate that his downfall is within reach if momentum is maintained.

To ensure long-term success, the military must maintain relentless pressure on Turji and his associates. Surveillance and intelligence should focus on his current hideouts in the Garsa/Kadanya axis. Local collaborators, including Jummo Smally, should be neutralized or deterred through targeted actions and community engagement.

Decisive leadership decapitation, coupled with disruption of supply chains and logistics, will further cripple Turji’s operations. Capturing or neutralizing him will deliver a decisive blow and significantly weaken the banditry network in the region.

Military crushes Turji’s network, seven commanders, 24 bandits eliminated