In a major victory for security forces in the North West, troops of the 1 Brigade, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Operation Fansan Yamma, successfully eliminated several terrorists, including notorious bandit leader Alhaji Ma’oli, in Zamfara State.
The operation, which took place on December 26, 2024, was confirmed in a statement by Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, the Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Center for Operation Fansan Yamma. He disclosed that the raid occurred in Mai Sheka village, near Kunchin Kalgo town, an area previously plagued by Ma’oli’s criminal activities.
Terrorizing Local Communities
Ma’oli had been a feared figure in the region, notorious for imposing illegal levies on local residents in areas such as Unguwan Rogo, Mai Sheka, and Magazawa, within the Bilbis district of Tsafe Local Government Area. His reign of terror had caused immense hardship for the people in these communities, making his elimination a significant milestone in the ongoing fight against banditry.
Lt. Col. Abdullahi explained that the operation was launched following intelligence reports about terrorists operating on motorcycles in the Bilbis area. The troops’ swift response not only disrupted the terrorists’ plans to attack local communities but also reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.
The successful operation has been met with relief and joy from the residents of Bilbis, who have long suffered under Ma’oli’s control. Abdullahi stressed that the neutralization of the bandit leader was a critical blow to the terrorists’ activities in the region.
Lt. Col. Abdullahi further emphasized that Operation Fansan Yamma will continue its mission to root out remaining terrorists and their collaborators from the Joint Task Force’s area of operations. He assured local communities that the Joint Task Force will remain dedicated to ensuring lasting peace and security in Zamfara State and surrounding areas.
The fight against terrorism is far from over, but this success demonstrates our unwavering resolve to protect our citizens and restore order,” he concluded.