The Nigerian Air Force has launched a deadly airstrike on a mass wedding ceremony attended by armed bandits at Asaula Hills in Yankuzo ward, Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The operation, carried out Tuesday afternoon, was based on credible intelligence that dozens of senior figures from various enclaves in a notorious gang were congregating in a remote location for a wedding ceremony, a rare opportunity for a direct hit.

According to a report shared by security analyst, Zagazola Makama, the strike was conducted at about 4:00 pm by the air component of Operation FANSAR YANMA under Sector 2 Command of the Nigerian Air Force.

Sources confirmed that over 100 motorcycles were seen at the venue, with several heavily armed men gathered for the occasion. The jet strike caught them by surprise at the peak of the celebration.

“The wedding brought together fighters from Faskari and Kankara LGAs in Katsina State, and from across Zamfara.

“Dozens were neutralised on the spot, while many others sustained critical injuries,” one source said.
Local informants said at least 10 bodies were recovered by nightfall, while several others were burnt beyond recognition. At least 33 injured fighters were reportedly taken for treatment to the Comprehensive Health Centre in Yankuzo and surrounding hamlets.

Intelligence sources indicated that some of the injured are being treated by unqualified health workers, and called for mop-up operations around Yankuzo and other nearby recovery points.

The Zamfara State Government has yet to issue an official statement, but local reports suggest that the aftermath has triggered panic among terror cells, with many going underground to avoid further detection.