Troops Launch Offensive Against 4 Zamfara Bandit Kingpins

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have launched a major offensive against four notorious bandit kingpins in Zamfara State following intelligence that the armed groups were planning coordinated attacks across parts of the North-West.

Military sources said the operation targeted Dogo Gide, Najaja, Nasanda and Buba Oris after credible intelligence received on July 25 indicated that fighters loyal to the commanders had assembled along the Barayarzaki Riverline in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

According to the sources, the armed groups were preparing coordinated attacks in Zamfara and neighbouring states.

Acting on the intelligence, troops carried out precision air strikes on suspected terrorist hideouts at Barayan Zaki and key crossing points along the Barayarzaki Riverline, while personnel of the 8 Division Strike Force simultaneously deployed ambush teams and launched follow-up ground operations.

The military said the coordinated assault disrupted the movement of the fighters, forcing them to retreat towards Barayan Zaki while attempting to cross the Gummi–Anka Main Supply Route.

Troops pursued the fleeing terrorists, leading to a fierce gun battle at Kombo High Ground along the Anka–Gummi Road in Bukkuyum Local Government Area.

Several suspected terrorists were killed during the exchange of fire, while others escaped into nearby forests, according to the military sources.

One soldier sustained injuries during the operation and was evacuated to the General Hospital in Anka for treatment. The military said no equipment was lost.

During follow-up clearance operations on July 26, troops recovered 13 rounds of PKT machine gun ammunition and one machine gun round as they continued patrols aimed at preventing the armed groups from regrouping.

Military sources said Operation FANSAN YAMMA has intensified intelligence-led air and ground operations across the North-West to dismantle terrorist networks, restrict the movement of bandit leaders and prevent attacks on communities and security formations.

The sources described the latest offensive as a significant blow to some of the region’s most wanted bandit leaders, adding that sustained military pressure would continue until terrorist networks operating in Zamfara and neighbouring states are dismantled.