Soldiers killed Turji’s second-in-command, 31 others -DHQ

 Military Eliminates Turji’s Deputy and 31 Terrorists in Northwest Offensive

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the killing of Aminu Kanawa, the second-in-command to notorious terrorist leader Bello Turji, by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma.

According to the DHQ, troops also inflicted severe injuries on key members of Turji’s group, including his younger brother, in a major offensive against the terrorist network in the North-West region.

This operation follows Monday’s announcement by the military that Turji’s fighters and son were eliminated during a clearance mission targeting his stronghold. The military even mocked the terrorist leader for abandoning his men and his son in the heat of battle.

The DHQ had earlier pledged to capture or eliminate Turji in 2025, after he repeatedly taunted security forces and dared them to confront him following his associate Bako Wurgi’s arrest in December 2024.

Despite the recent surrender of two terrorist leaders in the North-West, the military reiterated its commitment to dismantling Turji’s network.

Providing an update on Wednesday, the outgoing Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Edward Buba, disclosed that over seven key commanders of Turji, along with 24 other fighters, were killed as troops stormed his hideout.

“Between January 20 and 21, 2025, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma successfully neutralized Aminu Kanawa, the second-in-command of Bello Turji. Troops also inflicted serious injuries on his close associates, including Dosso (Turji’s younger brother) and Danbokolo (a key ally).

“In addition, several of Turji’s top commanders, including Abu Dan Shehu, Jabbi Dogo, Dan Kane, Basiru Yellow, Kabiru Gebe, Bello Buba, and Dan Inna Kahon-Saniya-Yafi-Bahaushe, were neutralized. Furthermore, over 24 terrorists fleeing Turji’s camp were eliminated around Gebe and Isa Local Government Areas in Sokoto State, as well as Gidan Rijiya in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State,” Buba stated.

Another key terrorist figure, identified as Suleiman, was also killed during the military operation. Suleiman, a close loyalist of the late terrorist leader Halilu Sububu, was leading a reinforcement team to rescue Turji’s camp when he was eliminated in a gunfight.

“The death of Turji’s deputy, alongside his commanders and fighters, is a significant setback for the terrorist network in the North-West. This group has been responsible for numerous kidnappings and violent attacks, particularly in Zurmi, Shinkafi, Isa, and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas in Zamfara and Sokoto States,” Buba noted.

The DHQ reaffirmed its determination to completely eliminate these terrorist groups, emphasizing that ongoing military operations are focused on restoring security and stability in the region.