In a major breakthrough against terrorist elements in Nigeria’s North-West, troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA (OPFY) neutralized several high-profile terrorists in a coordinated offensive on June 10, 2025, around Ƙunchin Kalgo town, Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Among the terrorists killed was a notorious commander known as Auta, along with his key lieutenants Abdul Jamilu and Salisu. Military authorities say the operation dealt a “devastating blow” to organized criminal networks in the region.
“This operation was precise and intelligence-led. Auta and his men were responsible for numerous violent attacks in Zamfara. Their elimination is a significant step toward restoring peace,” said Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, in a statement released on June 13.
According to preliminary intelligence, two other terrorist kingpins — one identified as Babayé — were also eliminated during the offensive.
In a separate engagement, troops reportedly killed Sale Ado Madele, also known as Sarki, the eldest son of infamous bandit leader Ado Alieru. Military sources described the killing of Sarki as a “critical disruption to a violent network that has plagued the region for years.”
The operation did not end there. In a related encounter, troops targeted a group of about ten terrorists who had gathered near a filling station in Danjibga. Intelligence reports suggest the group was part of a larger syndicate being mobilized by another terrorist leader, Dogo Sule, for a potential attack.
“These successful operations are the result of renewed military pressure and robust inter-agency collaboration,” Kangye added. “The Armed Forces remain resolute in their mission to dismantle terrorist cells and safeguard communities.”
Residents in the affected areas have reportedly expressed relief at the development, as local sources confirmed reduced movement of armed groups in recent days.
The Nigerian Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring long-term stability in Zamfara State and the wider North-West, emphasizing that more operations will follow to uproot remaining threats.
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Photos of the neutralized terrorists, including Auta, were made available by Defence Headquarters.
