The military Operation FANSAN YANMA conducted a massive precision airstrike in Tumfa Village, Shinkafi Local Government. Intelligence suggested a high-level meeting of bandit leaders and commanders from across the West African sub-region was taking place in a building hidden by thick mango trees.
The building was destroyed, and several “notorious” terrorist leaders were neutralized. However, as with many strikes in this region, there is ongoing scrutiny regarding potential civilian “associates” caught in the crossfire during casualty evacuations.
While the military hit back in Zamfara, Bassa LGA in Plateau State suffered a devastating setback. On May 8, gunmen invaded the Ngbra Zongo (or Zhe Brazongo) community at midnight.
The “coming week” will be dominated by follow-up strategy sessions. Governor Caleb Mutfwang held an emergency meeting in Jos on May 12, where he declared “war” on the perpetrators. New measures include a stricter ban on motorcycles and night grazing, plus the deployment of additional logistics to reclaim “ungoverned spaces.”
Following these incidents, the Federal Government and security chiefs are expected to convene to bridge the gap between the air successes in Zamfara and the ground-level protection failures in Plateau. Governor Mutfwang has been vocal that these aren’t just “communal clashes” but acts of terrorism with political undertones.
