Notorious Bandit Leader Sani Rusu Killed in Deadly Gunfight with Troops

Troops engaged in Operation Fansan Yamma have achieved a significant victory in the ongoing battle against terrorism, eliminating notorious bandit leader Sani Rusu and dozens of his followers in a fierce gunfight in Zamfara State.

The operation, which took place on Saturday, January 4, in Bamamu village within the Tsafe Local Government Area, was the result of intelligence-driven efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist networks in the region.

Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre for Operation Fansan Yamma, confirmed the success in a statement issued on Tuesday. According to Abdullahi, the troops engaged in a fierce exchange of fire, neutralizing Sani Rusu and many of his associates. The terrorists’ strongholds were also destroyed during the operation, signaling a decisive blow to their operations.

In a related operation the same day, the troops carried out an ambush in Kwanar Jollof, Shinkafi Local Government Area, after receiving credible intelligence regarding terrorist movements. The ambush resulted in the neutralization of additional terrorists, with several others suffering fatal injuries.

The troops also seized a substantial haul of weapons, including an AK-47 rifle, a G3 rifle, various types of ammunition, and three motorcycles, further crippling the terrorists’ ability to operate in the region.

Lt. Col. Abdullahi also acknowledged the significant role played by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma, which carried out precise airstrikes on December 30, 2024. These airstrikes targeted a group of terrorists gathering in the area between Fakai and Kware in Shinkafi LGA, inflicting major damage and disrupting their plans.

These successful operations mark a major step forward in the fight to restore peace and security in Zamfara State and its surroundings.