Abuja — Tensions are running high in the Northwest region following a string of military operations that left dozens of bandits dead, including several top commanders, sparking fears of retaliatory attacks.

According to security sources, the military and volunteer forces swooped on bandit hideouts in Zamfara State, killing at least 65 armed fighters, including Ado Aliero’s son and other high-ranking commanders.

The operations, part of Operation FANSAN YANMA, targeted bandit enclaves in Tsafe Local Government Area and surrounding forests, disrupting the group’s logistics and freeing captives.

However, security experts warn that the heavy losses may prompt surviving bandits to launch revenge attacks on vulnerable communities and security formations.

“There are indications that surviving elements are regrouping and planning retaliatory attacks,” said a security expert.

Authorities have intensified surveillance and troop deployments in vulnerable areas, focusing on forest fringes and highways in Tsafe, Maru, and neighboring areas.

The situation remains fluid, with reports of bandits mobilizing on motorcycles, assembling in forest hideouts, and notorious leader Bello Turji allegedly involved in the planned attacks.