The Nigerian Army’s Operation FANSAN has recorded a significant success in its ongoing campaign against banditry and terrorism in the North West region, particularly in Zamfara State. During a recent operation tagged FANSAR YAN BINDIGA, troops engaged in a fierce battle with terrorists, neutralizing over 50 fighters and severely injuring at least 25 others, including high-profile commanders loyal to Bello Turji and Sani Mai Nasara, also known as Sani Black.
Among the slain terrorist leaders were Kachallah Sanni Bammuwa, Kachallah Auta, Audu Gajere, Kabiru Jangeru, Dan-Gajere, and the notorious Bako Malaika, who had terrorized the Tungan Dan Musa area for years.
This operation marks a historic breakthrough for Nigerian forces, who successfully penetrated and dominated the Tungan Fulani Hills—a long-standing terrorist stronghold in the Zurmi-Shinkafi axis. The location had been deemed impenetrable for years, with five previous military attempts failing due to stiff resistance and resulting in casualties and equipment losses.
The area gained notoriety after a deadly ambush in 2019, when fighters loyal to Bello Turji and Sani Black killed a Major and 16 soldiers en route to rotate troops stationed in Mashema village. Following that attack, the military was forced to withdraw from the Mashema District, leaving the area under terrorist control.
Buoyed by this success, military officials have pledged to sustain the offensive under the newly launched Operation Show No Mercy. The goal, according to defense officials, is not just to push the terrorists out but to ensure their complete elimination.
“The time for hiding is over. Bello Turji, Sani Black, and their fighters must either surrender unconditionally or face total annihilation. There will be no negotiations, no safe havens, and no escape routes,” a military source stated.
The significance of securing Tungan Fulani Hills cannot be overstated, as it serves as a key route for arms smuggling from Niger Republic and Mali. Intelligence reports reveal that Turji and Sani Black had been using the hilly terrain to store weapons, plan ambushes, and conduct kidnappings along major roads. By capturing the area, the military has disrupted their supply chain and cut off escape routes to neighboring forests.
In the aftermath of this victory, security forces have called on local communities to cooperate with intelligence operatives to track down fleeing terrorists. Military sources confirmed that operations have expanded beyond Zamfara into neighboring states to prevent the regrouping of terrorist factions.
“As Operation Show No Mercy intensifies, residents are urged to report suspicious movements and avoid offering logistics or shelter to fleeing bandits,” the military said in a statement.
With the support of the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies, the army remains committed to eradicating terrorism in the North West. “The fight is far from over, but we’ve sent a strong message—there is no safe place for terrorists in Nigeria. Every terrorist camp will be destroyed, and every leader will be neutralized,” the source added.
The coming weeks are expected to bring further decisive action against terrorist networks in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kaduna States. Security forces have vowed that the mission will continue until total peace is restored to the region.
Residents are hopeful that the military’s renewed momentum will bring an end to years of terror and restore lasting peace to their communities.
