A notorious terrorist kingpin, Yellow Danbokkolo, who had long terrorised communities across Eastern Sokoto and neighbouring areas, has died from gunshot wounds sustained during a fierce encounter with troops of Operation FASAN YAMA.
The operation, which was intelligence-led and executed in collaboration with hybrid forces, air components, and other security agencies, took place last week. It culminated in a decisive battle that saw Danbokkolo neutralised after years of unleashing terror across the region.
Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, confirmed the development in a statement released on Tuesday, 1 July 2025.
He said, “A notorious terrorist kingpin, known as Yellow Danbokkolo, who for years has devastated residents of Eastern Sokoto, suffered serious gunshot wounds. He subsequently died yesterday from the injuries sustained during the fierce battle with our troops.”
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Danbokkolo, considered more feared than even the infamous Bello Turji, was the mastermind behind the gruesome December 2021 arson attack in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where scores of travellers were burnt alive. Known for his extreme cruelty and dependency on narcotics, Danbokkolo was reportedly addicted to pentazocine, a drug he used to sustain his violent activities.
According to the Defence Headquarters, his elimination marks a major breakthrough in the military’s sustained counter-terrorism campaign across the North-West.
“Our exultant troops of Operation FASAN YAMA, with this renewed resolve, are on the hunt for Bello Turji, who has been in hiding,” General Kangye added, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain committed to restoring peace and normalcy nationwide.
The Nigerian military has called on citizens to cooperate with security forces by providing timely and actionable intelligence as efforts continue to rid the country of criminal elements.
Yellow Danbokkolo’s death is expected to significantly weaken the operational structure of terrorist cells operating in the Sokoto-Zamfara axis, bringing renewed hope to affected communities.
