Military air strikes kill several suspected terrorists in Zamfara

The Nigerian military have killed several suspected terrorists during air strikes on Yankuzo community in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The operation was carried out on Monday evening by security forces under Operation Fansan Yanma, according to counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama.

Local sources said five military aircraft took part in the operation and attacked suspected terrorists in the community.

Several fighters were reportedly killed, although the exact number of casualties was not immediately known.

“Among those reportedly killed was a terrorist identified as Isiya Gurgu, said to be a close associate of a notorious bandit leader known as Musa Commander, who is reportedly linked to the Ado Aleru network,” Makama said.

“The sources further claimed that Musa Commander is associated with several terrorist-controlled communities, including Tsamiya and other settlements in the area.

“According to the account, the security forces appeared to have exercised caution during the operation to minimise civilian casualties, with the engagement reportedly focused on individuals seen carrying weapons or dressed in military-style uniforms.”

Several other suspected terrorists were also reportedly wounded in the air strikes.

Yankuzo is believed to be a stronghold of armed groups linked to the Ado Aleru network, with residents facing repeated threats from terrorists operating in the area.