Troops of Operation Fansan Yanma have carried out a major offensive against a notorious bandit enclave in Zamfara State, killing several fighters, including the son of wanted bandit leader Ado Alero.
The operation, which took place on Saturday in Tsafe Local Government Area, was confirmed by the spokesperson of the task force, David Adewusi. He disclosed that troops launched a coordinated assault on the camp, resulting in significant casualties among the armed group.
According to Adewusi, the exact number of those killed has not yet been officially determined, as security forces are still conducting a post-operation assessment. However, he maintained that the raid inflicted heavy losses on the bandits.
Local and security reports suggest that among those killed was Kachalla Iliya Sarki, identified as the biological son of Ado Alero. Other high-ranking members of the group, including individuals known as Dogo Sule and Iliya Mai Rasha, were also reportedly neutralised during the encounter.
The offensive was said to have involved both ground troops and aerial support, with precision strikes targeting key positions within the camp. Sources indicated that the bandit leader had mobilised a large number of fighters, estimated to be in the hundreds, but they were overpowered by the superior firepower of the military.
Despite the success of the operation, the attack was not without losses. Reports indicate that several vigilantes who were supporting the troops during the mission lost their lives in the exchange.
Security analysts believe that the death of Iliya Sarki, who was allegedly linked to kidnapping and cattle rustling activities across multiple states, could significantly disrupt the operational structure of the group.
Meanwhile, Ado Alero is believed to have escaped the assault and fled towards nearby settlements, prompting intensified efforts by security forces to track him down. Troops have since heightened surveillance across surrounding communities to prevent potential retaliatory attacks.
The operation is part of ongoing military efforts to dismantle bandit networks and restore security in the North-West region.
