Communities along the Kaduna-Katsina border erupted in celebration as news spread that the notorious terrorist leader, Buharin Yadi, had been killed by security forces. Buharin Yadi, also known as Buhari Alhaji Halidu, had been one of the most feared bandit leaders in Northern Nigeria over the past decade.
Samuel Aruwan, the Overseeing Commissioner of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs in Kaduna State, announced on Thursday that troops from Sector 6 Operation Whirl Punch successfully neutralized the terrorist kingpin and his associates. This decisive action brought an end to their reign of terror.
“Halidu was eliminated in a fierce battle with the troops under the command of Major General MLD Saraso, the General Officer Commanding of One Division Nigerian Army,” Aruwan stated. “The encounter took place around Idasu forest, located at the boundary between Giwa LGA of Kaduna State and Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State.”
The operation was initiated following intelligence reports about the movement of terrorists from the Samunaka and Saulawa areas of Katsina State. Upon advancing to Samunaka, the troops discovered the settlement in ruins, with cattle killed—clear evidence of the bandits’ recent criminal activities.
The troops engaged in a ferocious battle, bombarding the approaching terrorists with artillery rounds at Hayin Almajiri. Despite facing an ambush, the troops fought valiantly and achieved their objective. Initial assessments indicate that at least 36 bandits were eliminated during the engagement.
One of those confirmed killed was Kachalla Buharin Yadi, also known as Buhari Janar. Buharin Yadi and his gang had terrorized citizens across the Kidandan/Galadimawa areas of Giwa LGA, Sabon Birni/Kerawa areas of Igabi LGA, and other parts of Sabuwa LGA in Katsina State, as well as parts of Niger and Zamfara States.
Buharin Yadi was notorious for large-scale cattle rustling, arms trading, and drug trafficking. He led his gang in the pillaging of communities, and the slaughter and kidnapping of thousands of citizens in Kaduna and neighboring states. He was also linked to other deadly terrorist groups in the Northeast and Northwest.
The demise of Buharin Yadi marks the end of a five-year manhunt by security forces. The news of his death spread rapidly, bringing immense relief and widespread celebrations among locals in Kaduna and Katsina States.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State expressed his elation at the development, praising the bravery, proactivity, and efficiency of the troops involved. He commended Major General Saraso for his leadership and reassured security forces in Kaduna State of his continued support and collaboration.
Aruwan urged the public to report any individuals with suspicious injuries to the security agencies and not to render any assistance. He emphasized that the Kaduna State Security Operations Room is available 24/7 to receive such reports at the phone lines 09034000060 and 08170189999. Special operations against bandits will continue in the area, and citizens are encouraged to provide supportive information to security forces and the government.
