Troops Neutralise Scores Of Bandits In Zamfara

Troops of 8 Division Nigerian Army operating under Sector 2 “Operation FANSAN YAMMA” have killed scores of bandits loyal to fugitive terrorist leader, Gwaska Dan Karemi.

The fierce gun encounter which happened in Maru local government area of Zamfara State was propelled by intelligence regarding the activities of the bandits.

In via a press release, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the acting deputy director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, said the operations followed days of intensive surveillance.

“The operation was triggered by credible intelligence revealing that over 100 bandits had gathered at the camp to coordinate large-scale attacks on local communities and military supply lines. Following days of intensive surveillance, ground troops supported by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) intercepted the bandits on January 31, 2026.

“A fierce firefight ensued as the terrorists attempted a flanking and encirclement manoeuvring. However, they were overwhelmed by the troops’ superior firepower. While many bandits were eliminated, others fled with gunshot wounds. The camp was set ablaze before the troops withdrew,” he said.

While noting that the NAF component is still conducting interdiction missions to intercept fleeing remnants of bandits, Osoba added that ground troops continue to maintain dominance over the area.

He, however, said some gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the fierce encounter, including a combat enabler vehicle that cut its path after being hit by the enemy’s Rocket-Propelled Grenade.

“The Nigerian Army honours the fallen soldiers’ sacrifice and remains determined in its mission. Combat efficiency remains high as troops continue to dismantle bandit networks and disrupt their supply chains across the region,” Osoba said.