Troops of Operation Fansan Yanma have conducted a major raid on the hideout of notorious bandit leader Ado Alero in Tsafe Local Government Area, Zamfara State, resulting in the deaths of multiple fighters, including Alero’s son.
Operation spokesperson, Capt. David Adewusi, confirmed the offensive to PUNCH Online, stating that the raid occurred on Saturday and involved heavy military engagement.
“There was a significant attack on Alero’s camp in Tsafe LGA on Saturday, which led to the neutralization of several bandits,” Adewusi said.
While the precise number of casualties is still being verified, preliminary reports suggest substantial losses among the bandit ranks.
A post on the Nigerian Armed Forces and Military News Facebook page reported that at least 65 bandits were killed, including Kachalla Iliya Sarki, the biological son of Ado Alero. Key lieutenants such as Dogo Sule and Iliya Mai Rasha were also reportedly killed.
The bandit leader is said to have mobilized roughly 300 motorcycle-mounted fighters and reinforcements from allied groups. However, they were overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the army, which included precision airstrikes. The encounter also claimed the lives of seven vigilantes who were assisting the troops.
The elimination of Iliya Sarki, a commander involved in kidnapping and cattle rustling across several states, is expected to weaken the operational structure of Alero’s network. Alero himself reportedly fled towards Yankuzo town, while military forces are intensifying efforts to apprehend remaining members and prevent retaliatory attacks on nearby communities.
Security agencies have heightened vigilance in surrounding areas as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle cells linked to Alero and his gang.
