Military air strikes kill ‘several terrorists' in Zamfara community

Military aircraft have carried out airstrikes on suspected terrorists and killed several fighters in Yankuzo community, Tsafe LGA of Zamfara state. Nigerians soldiers | File photoMilitary aircraft have carried out air strikes on suspected terrorists and killed several fighters in Yankuzo community, Tsafe LGA of Zamfara state. The operation was conducted on Monday evening by security forces under Operation Fansan Yanma, according to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication. Local sources told Makama that five military aircraft participated in the coordinated operation and engaged suspected terrorists in the community. Several fighters were reportedly killed, although the exact number of casualties could not immediately be established. 'Among those reportedly killed was a terrorist identified as Isiya Gurgu, said to be a close associate of a notorious bandit leader known as Musa Commander, who is reportedly linked to the Ado Aleru network,' Makama said. 'The sources further claimed that Musa Commander is associated with several terrorist-controlled communities, including Tsamiya and other settlements in the area. 'According to the account, the security forces appeared to have exercised caution during the operation to minimise civilian casualties, with the engagement reportedly focused on individuals seen carrying weapons or dressed in military-style uniforms. 'Yankuzo community is said to be a stronghold of armed groups linked to the Ado Aleru network, with residents facing persistent threats from fighters operating in and around the community.