Zamfara: NAF Airstrike Targets Bandits’ Wedding, Leaves Dozens Dead

In a major victory for the Nigerian military, an airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has killed dozens of armed bandits during a mass wedding ceremony at Asaula Hills in Yankuzo ward, Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The strike, which occurred around 4:00 PM on Tuesday, was based on credible intelligence that heavily armed fighters were gathering at the remote, rugged hilltop for a wedding. The air operation was carried out by the air component of Operation FANSAR YANMA under Sector 2 Command of the NAF.

According to reports shared by trusted security analyst Zagazola Makama, the strike caught the bandits by surprise at the height of the celebration. Over 100 motorcycles were spotted at the venue, packed with fighters from various terror cells.

“The wedding brought together fighters from Faskari and Kankara in Katsina State, as well as different parts of Zamfara,” a source confirmed.

Initial assessments revealed that dozens of bandits were killed instantly, while several others suffered severe injuries. By nightfall, at least 10 bodies had been recovered, with many more burnt beyond recognition.

Reports indicate that at least 33 injured bandits were rushed to the Comprehensive Health Centre in Yankuzo and other local hamlets for treatment—many of them reportedly treated by unqualified local health workers due to the fear of being captured.

Security experts have called for immediate mop-up operations in the area, including Yankuzo and surrounding communities, to capture fleeing bandits and prevent further regrouping.

This strike comes amid intensified military pressure on bandit enclaves in Nigeria’s Northwest, where heavily armed gangs have plagued communities through kidnappings, extortion, and violence.

The success of this operation is expected to disrupt ongoing plans among criminal groups and send a strong message that nowhere is safe for terrorists to regroup or celebrate.