Nigerian military eliminates 33 terrorists including Bello Turji’s Deputy
Nigerian military, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have successfully neutralized Aminu Kanawa, the second-in-command to notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji. The operation, which took place between January 20 and 21, 2025, also left Turji’s close allies severely wounded and dealt a devastating blow to his network in the North West region.
According to a statement from Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, the military’s efforts have led to the elimination of several key figures from Turji’s terror faction. In addition to Kanawa, troops inflicted severe injuries on Dosso, Turji’s younger brother, and Danbokolo, a top lieutenant. Some other high-ranking commanders also met their end during the onslaught.
“This operation is a major success for our troops,” Buba stated. “We have neutralized several of Bello Turji’s key commanders, including Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, and Basiru Yellow, among others. Their loss will undoubtedly impact the operational strength of this terrorist group.”
The troops also tracked down and killed over 24 fleeing terrorists across multiple locations, including areas in Sokoto and Zamfara states. Among those eliminated was Suleiman, a terrorist linked to the late Halilu Sububu, who was attempting to reinforce Turji’s camp before being taken down in a fierce firefight.
The successful operation is a crucial setback for the terrorist network, as the death of Turji’s second-in-command and his closest supporters severely undermines the group’s ability to continue their violent operations. The military’s efforts in the region, which are part of a broader campaign to eradicate terrorism, have led to the destruction of key enemy resources, including Turji’s arms stockpiles and safe havens.
Earlier in January, a separate operation in Zamfara State resulted in the death of Turji’s son, other family members, and senior lieutenants. The crackdown also targeted Turji’s known enclaves, including Zangon Dan Gwandi and Zangon Tsaika, where military forces destroyed critical infrastructure used by the terrorists to store weapons and supplies.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed that operations will continue relentlessly until all terrorist groups are neutralized and security is restored in the affected regions.
