In a significant victory for Nigerian security forces, the notorious terrorist leader Buharin Yadi, who has instilled fear across Northern Nigeria for over a decade, has been killed by troops.
The soldiers from Sector 6 Operation Whirl Punch launched a decisive attack on Buhari Alhaji Halidu, widely known as Buharin Yadi, and his followers, bringing an abrupt end to their reign of terror.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama on Thursday reported that Yadi was neutralized during a fierce clash with troops led by Major General MLD Saraso, the General Officer Commanding One Division of the Nigerian Army.
The battle occurred in the Idasu forest, located between Giwa LGA in Kaduna State and Sabuwa LGA in Katsina State.
According to the report, the operation was initiated based on intelligence about the terrorists’ movements from the Samunaka and Saulawa areas in Katsina State. Upon reaching Samunaka, the troops discovered evidence of recent criminal activity, including destroyed settlements and slaughtered cattle.
A brutal battle ensued as the troops engaged the approaching terrorists with artillery fire at Hayin Almajiri. They bravely fought through an ambush to achieve their mission, reportedly eliminating at least 36 bandits in the process. Among the dead was confirmed to be Kachalla Buharin Yadi.
Yadi, also known as Buhari Janar, and his gang had terrorized the regions of Kidandan/Galadimawa in Giwa LGA, Sabon Birni/Kerawa in Igabi LGA, and parts of Sabuwa LGA in Katsina State, as well as some areas in Niger and Zamfara States. His criminal activities included cattle rustling, arms trading, and drug trafficking. He led numerous attacks, resulting in the abduction and killing of thousands.
Yadi was also known to have connections with other terrorist groups in the Northeast and Northwest. His death marks the culmination of a five-year manhunt by security forces, sparking widespread jubilation in the affected communities of Kaduna and Katsina States.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, expressed his joy at the news, praising the troops for their bravery and effectiveness.
He commended Major General Saraso for his leadership and assured the security forces of the state’s continued support and cooperation.