In a significant victory against banditry and terrorism in Northwestern Nigeria, Nigerian Army troops under Operation FANSAN have successfully captured the notorious Tungan Fulani Hills in Zamfara State. During a fierce battle tagged Operation FANSAR YAN BINDIGA, over 50 terrorists were neutralized, with at least 25 others, including key commanders loyal to Bello Turji and Sani Mai Nasara (Sani Black), seriously injured.
Among the high-profile terrorists killed were Kachallah Sanni Bammuwa, Kachallah Auta, Audu Gajere, Kabiru Jangeru, Dan-Gajere (son of Audu Jabbi), and Bako Malaika, known for operations around Tungan Dan Musa.
This marks the first successful military incursion into the area, previously one of the most fortified terrorist strongholds in the Zurmi-Shinkafi axis. Past attempts to breach this location had resulted in significant losses for the military, including a deadly ambush in 2019 where a Major and 16 soldiers were killed, leading to a withdrawal from the area.
The recent operation’s success has led to the launch of “Operation Show No Mercy,” with military officials declaring an uncompromising stance against the terrorists. “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,” stated military sources.
The strategic importance of Tungan Fulani Hills cannot be overstated, as it has been a key route for arms smuggling from Niger Republic and Mali, used by terrorists to store weapons, plan attacks, and execute kidnappings. By securing this area, the military has significantly disrupted the logistical support for these criminal activities.
In the aftermath, security forces are calling for cooperation from local communities to track down any fleeing terrorists. The military has expanded its operations into neighboring states to prevent regrouping.
“The Nigerian Army, with support from the Air Force and other security agencies, is committed to eradicating terrorism in the North-West. The fight is far from over, but we have sent a strong message that there is no safe place for terrorists in Nigeria. This operation will not stop until every terrorist camp is destroyed, every leader is neutralized, and every fugitive is brought to justice,” a top military official emphasized.
As the military ramps up its efforts under Operation Show No Mercy, the focus will now shift to further dismantle terrorist networks across Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kaduna States.