By Atoyebi Nike
The Defense Headquarters has confirmed the death of notorious terrorist leader Yellow Danbokolo during a military operation in Zamfara State, marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against banditry in the northwest.
Danbokolo died from gunshot wounds sustained during a fierce engagement with troops of Operation FASAN YAMA, supported by Hybrid Forces, Air Components, and other security agencies, according to a statement released Tuesday by Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defense Media Operations.
The intelligence-led mission, conducted last week, targeted known terrorist enclaves. During the encounter, several insurgents were neutralized, including Danbokolo, who had long terrorized communities in Eastern Sokoto and parts of Zamfara.
“Danbokolo suffered serious gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and later died on Monday from his wounds,” Maj.-Gen. Kangye stated.
He added that Danbokolo was considered more feared than Bello Turji, another infamous terrorist figure, and was believed to have masterminded the December 2021 massacre in Shinkafi LGA, where travellers were set ablaze in a bus, one of the most gruesome attacks in recent memory.
Kangye further revealed that Danbokolo was known to abuse pentazocine, a powerful painkiller, to fuel his violent campaigns.
With his death, military authorities say troops are now zeroing in on Bello Turji, who has reportedly gone into hiding.
“Our exultant troops remain on the hunt for Bello Turji, and the operation will not relent,” Kangye said, reaffirming the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring peace and normalcy across the country.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the military’s efforts through information sharing and cooperation.
