The Nigerian military has scored another decisive blow against terrorist elements in the North West, following a successful air interdiction carried out by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) on Sunday, August 4, 2025. The operation targeted a large group of terrorists who had assembled at the foot of Asola Hills in Yankuzo Ward of Tsafe Local Government Area, Zamfara State, for a wedding ceremony.
According to a statement signed by the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Captain David Adewusi, the precision strike was conducted based on credible intelligence that revealed the convergence of terrorists from the Faskari and Kankara axis in Katsina State, alongside others from different parts of Zamfara. The operation resulted in the neutralization of several terrorists, while many others were left critically injured. The injured fighters were said to have been evacuated by their comrades to Yankuzo village for treatment.
In a swift follow-up, troops of 1 Brigade under Sector 2 of OPFY launched a ground operation in the early hours of Monday, August 5, to exploit the gains of the airstrike. The troops successfully fought through an ambush laid by the fleeing terrorists along the route to Yankuzo village, reinforcing their tactical superiority and operational readiness.
Independent confirmations from locals and reliable sources in the area indicated that no fewer than 30 terrorists were neutralized during the combined air and ground operations. Additionally, four known terrorist collaborators from Kunchin Kalgo village in Tsafe Local Government Area were reported to have sustained critical injuries during the engagement.
The operation has sparked widespread relief across Yankuzo, Tsafe, and neighbouring communities that have endured recurring terrorist attacks in recent times. Many residents view the successful interdiction as a turning point in the campaign to secure the region.
In reaffirming its commitment, the leadership of Operation FANSAN YAMMA assured the people of Zamfara State and the entire North West of its unwavering resolve to restore peace and eliminate terrorist threats.
“The operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure that peace and normalcy return to all affected communities,” the military statement emphasized.
