Nigerian troops kill notorious bandit Al’Jan, Zamfara residents celebrate
Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralized a notorious bandit, “Al’jan,” in the Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Al’jan’s death has brought relief to the residents of the area.
The deceased had long been terrorizing communities in the local government area.
Originally from Niger Republic, “Al’jan,” whose real name remains undisclosed, settled in Tsafe LGA after working as a motorcycle taxi operator.
Zagazola Makama, a Lake Chad Basin counterterrorism and insurgency expert, explained that working as a taxi operator connected Al’jan with Fulani herders, leading him down a path of criminality.
The publication stated: “Over time, he forged alliances with a bandit group led by Hassan Bamamu, becoming deeply entrenched in acts of banditry and terror throughout the region.
“Utilizing his extensive knowledge of Tsafe and its surroundings, “Al’jan” acted as a guide for criminal gangs, orchestrating numerous raids and kidnappings.”
He was implicated in several high-profile killings, including those of Anas Umar Dan Kanti, Alhaji Musa Ille, and an unnamed Navy officer.
It added: “The reign of terror that “Al’jan” inflicted on the community came to an end three weeks ago when security forces successfully neutralized him and several of his associates during a joint operation between Mada and Yandoton Daji in Tsafe LGA.
“This operation involved a coordinated effort by soldiers and local vigilantes, who ambushed the gang as they traversed the area.
“The elimination of “Al’jan” has brought newfound hope to the people of Tsafe, particularly those residing along the Tsafe-Gusau road, which had suffered from frequent attacks. Residents of Bamamu village, his last known hideout, confirmed his death after viewing his remains.”
