The Nigerian Air Force has intensified its efforts to combat banditry in Zamfara State, successfully neutralising key loyalists of notorious bandit leaders Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule in a series of targeted airstrikes.
The operation, carried out on November 15, 2024, targeted Babban Kauye village in Tsafe Local Government Area, a known stronghold of bandit groups.
According to NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, the airstrikes thwarted the bandits’ plans for coordinated attacks against military personnel and civilians along the Tsafe axis.
Speaking about the operation, Akinboyewa highlighted the success of the NAF’s aggressive air interdiction campaign, Operation Farautar Mujiya, which aims to dismantle bandit networks across the Northwest.
“Upon receiving credible intelligence, the NAF launched a series of devastating air strikes, inflicting significant casualties on the criminal elements,” Akinboyewa said.
He confirmed that the airstrikes had eliminated numerous high-ranking members of the bandit groups, crippling their operational capacity.
Babban Kauye village, the epicentre of the recent strikes, has long served as a safe haven for bandits loyal to Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule.
These groups have been linked to violent assaults on communities, security forces, and critical infrastructure in the Tsafe area.
Akinboyewa described the village as a hub where bandit factions regroup to coordinate their nefarious activities, making it a prime target for military action.
The latest operation is part of Operation Fansan Yamma, a broader campaign by the Nigerian military to restore peace and stability to Zamfara State and the Northwest region.
The NAF, in collaboration with other security agencies, is committed to dismantling bandit networks and preventing further attacks.
“These strikes represent a robust response and support for the Theatre Command of Operation Fansan Yamma,” Akinboyewa stated.
“Our efforts align with broader strategies to dismantle and completely degrade bandit networks in the region, disrupt planned attacks, and restore peace and stability to the embattled Northwest.”
The Nigerian Air Force reaffirmed its dedication to securing the region and eliminating threats posed by bandits, terrorists, and other criminal elements.
Akinboyewa concluded by emphasizing the Air Force’s collaboration with sister services and security agencies to ensure peace and prosperity for the nation.
