…Recovers Over 114 AK-47s, 208 Motorcycles, Neutralizes Top Bandit Kingpins in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi
In what appears to be a game-changing moment in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism drive, the Nigerian Army has delivered a crippling blow to terrorist and bandit networks operating in the Northwest. Under Operation FANSAN YANMA, troops have seized control of key battlegrounds, dismantled insurgent supply lines, and neutralized several notorious warlords in a sweeping offensive hailed as one of the military’s boldest in recent years.
At a high-level media briefing held at the 8 Division Headquarters in Sokoto, the General Officer Commanding, Major General Adekunle Ajose, declared the tide was turning. “We are dominating the operational area. The troops are emboldened and resolute. We take the fight to them—everywhere,” he said. Major Gains: Weapons, Motorcycles, and Livestock Recovered
Ajose revealed the recovery of a staggering cache of weapons and logistics items:
- 114 AK-47 rifles
- 3,351 rounds of ammunition
- 208 motorcycles
- 3,212 rustled livestock
- Heavy-duty weapons, including RPG tubes, GPMGs, Dushkas, mortars, and QJC guns TERROR LORDS FALL
Among those neutralized are some of the Northwest’s most feared bandit commanders: Yusuf Yellow, Halilu Sububu, Bako Wurgi, Sani Black, Dan Isuhu, and Hassan Dantawaye—names synonymous with terror across villages and highways.
“Leadership decapitation is key. We’ve taken out the heads, and the body is collapsing,” Ajose said.Zero Breaches Along 408KM Corridor
A specially formed joint task force combining Army, Police, and DSS operatives now secures the Sokoto-Kebbi Waterway and Transport Corridor—a vital artery for trade and development. Since its deployment, there have been zero security breaches along the 408-kilometer stretch.32 Clearance Operations in “Lakurawa Enclave”
The dreaded Lakurawa enclaves, previously untouched sanctuaries for terrorists, have now become graveyards of criminal ambition. In 32 coordinated clearance operations, troops stormed territories in Ilela, Tangaza, Gudu, and Silame (Sokoto) and parts of Kebbi, driving out bandit factions and re-establishing state authority.Joint Operations Reshaped for Impact
Ajose confirmed the merger of several tactical operations into a single, robust Joint Task Force. Operations like Forest Sanity III, Secure Super Highway, and Chase Lawurawas now work seamlessly to outmaneuver terrorists and cut off safe havens.
“With aerial drones, improved intelligence, and better welfare for troops—including increased feeding allowances—our edge is sharper than ever,” Ajose said.“We March on Their Enclaves—And We Win”
Troop morale, boosted by increased allowances and high-impact leadership, has created a momentum Ajose says will be sustained: “In two months, no attacks on our settlements. That’s not luck—it’s strategy, bravery, and commitment.” Community First: Peace Through Power
While maintaining an iron-fist approach on the battlefield, Operation Safe Corridor and reconciliation programs are quietly bringing former fighters back into society—an approach General Ajose said complements the military’s long-term vision for peace. Salute to the Fallen
Amid the victories, Ajose paid an emotional tribute: “We’ve had losses. Some paid the supreme price. We honour them, and we fight in their name.”
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