Troops under Operation Fansan Yamma, a joint task force against terrorists in the North West, have killed Bello Turji’s second-in-command, known as Aminu Kanawa.
Kanawa was killed during Air and ground assaults by the military in Fakai hill in Zamfara State.
Turji’s younger brother, now as Dosso and one of his closest allies named Danbokolo, were also severely injured during the operation.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen Edward Buba, confirmed the development on Wednesday.
He said troops also killed another notorious terrorist, Suleiman, who was a loyalist of late notorious terrorist leader, Halilu Sububu, during the onslaught on Turji’s enclave around Fakai high ground.
Buba said Suleiman was leading a reinforcement team to rescue Turji’s camp which was in disarray, when he was eliminated during the fire fight.
He said that the terrorists were in disarray in their camp due to intense operations.
Buba said: “Sequel to ongoing military onslaught on terrorists in the North West of the country, between the 20-21 Jan 2025, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA neutralised the second-in-command of notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji’s namely, Aminu Kanawa.
“Furthermore, troops neutralised over 24 fleeing terrorists from Bello Turji’s Camp around Gebe and Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, as well as around Gidan Rijiya in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
“The death of Turji’s second-in-command, close allies, commanders and combatants is a significant blow to the terrorist network in the North West of the country, as well as their military and fighting capabilities.
“These groups of terrorists were notorious for numerous kidnappings and terrorist attacks across the region, particularly in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas in Zamfara and Sokoto states.
“Overall, troops are not relenting until these terrorists are completely destroyed. Troops operations are aimed at creating an atmosphere of safety and security for all citizens.”