The Nigerian Air Force conducted a precision airstrike on Tuesday, targeting armed bandits gathered for a mass wedding ceremony at Asaula Hills in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The operation, executed by the air component of Operation FANSAR YANMA, followed credible intelligence reports about the convergence of dozens of militants from various enclaves in the region.
Security sources revealed the strike occurred around 4:00 pm when the gathering was at its peak, catching the armed attendees by surprise. Eyewitnesses reported seeing over 100 motorcycles at the remote hilltop venue, with numerous heavily armed men participating in the event.
The wedding reportedly brought together fighters from neighbouring Katsina State, including Faskari and Kankara local government areas, along with Zamfara-based bandits.
Initial reports indicate dozens of casualties, with at least 10 bodies recovered by nightfall and many others severely burned.
Approximately 33 injured fighters were transported for medical treatment to the Comprehensive Health Centre in Yankuzo and surrounding villages. Intelligence sources noted some wounded bandits are receiving care from unqualified medical personnel in the area.
Security analysts have called for follow-up operations around Yankuzo and adjacent communities to prevent the regrouping of surviving militants.
The successful strike demonstrates the Nigerian Air Force’s continued efforts to disrupt bandit activities in Nigeria’s northwest region, where armed groups have terrorised communities through kidnappings, cattle rustling, and violent attacks. Authorities maintain the operation was conducted based on verified intelligence about the presence of armed combatants at the gathering.
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