In an intensifying crackdown on criminal factions operating in Nigeria’s northwest, the military has confirmed the elimination of Aminu Kanawa, the deputy to infamous terrorist leader Bello Turji. This development is part of a larger offensive led by troops under Operation Fansan Yamma between January 20 and 21, 2025.
A statement issued by Defence spokesperson Edward Buba on Wednesday detailed the outcome of the operation, highlighting that critical injuries were also inflicted on prominent allies of Turji, including his younger sibling, Dosso, and a close associate, Danbokolo.
The statement further revealed that numerous high-ranking commanders within Turji’s network were neutralized during the operation. These included Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe, among others.
Additionally, over 24 terrorists attempting to flee from Turji’s stronghold were eliminated in the vicinities of Gebe and Isa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State, as well as near Gidan Rijiya in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The military operation also thwarted an attempted rescue mission orchestrated by Suleiman, a staunch loyalist of the late terrorist leader Halilu Sububu. Suleiman, who was leading a reinforcement team to stabilize Turji’s destabilized camp near Fakai high ground, was neutralized in a firefight.
“The demise of Bello Turji’s deputy, alongside his key allies, commanders, and numerous combatants, represents a substantial disruption to the operational structure and combat efficacy of the terrorist network in the northwest,” the statement emphasized.
These criminal elements were notorious for orchestrating numerous abductions and violent assaults across Zamfara and Sokoto States, with particular focus on Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas.
According to Buba, the military remains resolute in its mission to annihilate the remnants of these factions. He reiterated the commitment to restoring security and ensuring the protection of citizens in the affected regions.
This operation underscores the military’s unyielding resolve to dismantle terrorist enclaves and neutralize threats to national stability.
