Nigerian Air Force (NAF)fighter jets have successfully neutralized two notorious bandit kingpins during an airstrike in Zamfara Stat while operations continued on Sunday as part of the ongoing counterterrorism efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.
S security sources said the precision strikes targeted key hideouts of the bandits in the fores areas of Zamfara.
The operation was launched following credible intelligence reports that revealed the movements and activities of the criminals in the area. Among those killed were two high-profile leaders who had been orchestrating violent attacks, kidnappings and other criminal activities that have plagued communities in the region.
The NAF spokesperson confirmed the operation in a statement, emphasizing the commitment of the armed forces to eliminate all threats posed by banditry in Nigeria. “This operation underscores our unwavering determination to combat criminal elements and restore law and order across affected areas. The neutralization of these notorious bandit leaders is a significant step toward ensuring the safety and security of our citizens,” the statement read.
Local residents in Zamfara State have expressed relief over the successful airstrike, which they see as a critical blow to the network of banditry in the region. Many have lauded the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces, urging them to sustain the momentum and extend similar operations to other affected areas.
The fight against banditry has been a major challenge for Nigeria, particularly in the North West region, where armed groups have carried out a series of attacks, leading to loss of lives and displacement of communities. The federal government has intensified military operations, deploying both air and ground forces to dismantle the networks of these criminal groups.
Security experts view the elimination of the two kingpins as a strategic victory, noting that it could disrupt the chain of command among the bandits and weaken their capacity to carry out further attacks. However, they caution that sustained efforts, including intelligence gathering and community cooperation, are essential to achieving long-term peace and stability in the region
