In a significant crackdown on terrorism, the Nigerian army has killed a top commander and 31 fighters linked to the notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji during a military operation in the violence-stricken northwest region.
The Defense Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed on Wednesday that Aminu Kanawa, Turji’s second-in-command, was neutralized alongside dozens of fighters during “Operation Fansan Yamma.” The operation also left several close associates of Turji injured, including his younger brother.
This follows an earlier announcement by the DHQ on Monday, stating that Turji’s fighters and his son were killed in efforts to dismantle the terrorist stronghold. Reports suggest Turji fled during the confrontation, leaving his son and loyalists behind.
Bello Turji, infamous for orchestrating attacks that have claimed countless civilian and security force lives, remains a key figure in the violence plaguing Zamfara and Sokoto states. In 2022, bandits and terrorists under his command massacred over 200 people in Zamfara alone.
Data from Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics underscores the grave impact of insecurity in the region, with nearly 615,000 fatalities recorded in attacks nationwide between May 2023 and April 2024. The northwest suffered the highest toll, accounting for over 200,000 deaths.
The army’s recent successes mark a significant step in addressing the deepening insecurity in the region.