A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jet on Tuesday launched a deadly airstrike on a gathering of armed bandits attending a mass wedding ceremony in Asaula Hills, Yankuzo Ward, Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, killing dozens and leaving many others critically injured.
The precision airstrike, carried out by the air component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, followed credible intelligence that several top bandit commanders and fighters had converged in the rocky terrain for a celebration.
Sources familiar with the operation told Zagazola Makama that the event had drawn armed groups from multiple locations including Faskari and Kankara LGAs in Katsina State, as well as enclaves across Zamfara.
“At about 2:44 p.m., more than 100 motorcycles conveying heavily armed bandits were sighted moving towards the area. By 4:00 p.m., the Nigerian Air Force struck with devastating accuracy,” a field operative confirmed.
Immediate Aftermath
Security sources and local informants reported that dozens were instantly neutralised, with several others suffering severe burns and trauma injuries. At least 10 bodies were recovered shortly after the strike, while many others were burnt beyond recognition due to the intensity of the bombing.
As of Wednesday morning, over 33 injured bandits were said to be receiving treatment in makeshift clinics and remote settlements around Yankuzo. Some survivors were reportedly ferried away on motorcycles under cover of darkness.
“There is intelligence that some of the wounded are being treated secretly by unqualified health workers in nearby villages. We recommend urgent ground mop-up operations around Yankuzo and its outskirts,” another source added.
The successful strike is one of the heaviest casualties inflicted on terror groups in the North West in recent months and marks a significant escalation in the military’s counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA, launched earlier this year, is a coordinated military campaign aimed at dismantling terrorist hideouts, logistics camps, and command structures across Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, and Kebbi States.
Military officials say Tuesday’s operation underscores the growing effectiveness of aerial surveillance and joint intelligence-sharing between the services.
