Troops Neutralise Bandits, Destroy Hideouts in Sokoto-Zamfara Border Operations

Troops Neutralise Bandits, Destroy Hideouts in Sokoto-Zamfara Border Operations

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have recorded fresh success in the fight against insecurity in the North-West, neutralising several bandits and dismantling their hideouts in highland areas bordering Zamfara State, around Dangulbi and Kurawa villages in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

A reliable security source disclosed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Sokoto, confirming that the operation was carried out on June 4 in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilante groups.

According to the source, the troops engaged the armed bandits in a fierce gun battle during the clearance mission, leading to the neutralisation of several criminals, including suspected kingpins, while others escaped with gunshot injuries.

The bandits were reportedly forced to retreat into nearby forested areas spanning Sokoto and neighbouring states following the superior firepower and coordinated response from the security forces.

The operation also led to the destruction of multiple criminal hideouts used as operational bases by the armed groups. Security personnel recovered weapons and motorcycles abandoned during the encounter, believed to have been used for attacks and mobility across rural communities.

READ ALSO:

• Tobi Amusan Storms to Gold in Taiwan with New Meet Record
• Kwara: Nigerian Army Rescues Two Men After Escape from Kidnappers
• MTN Opens Data Billing System to Public Review Over Data Depletion Complaints

The source praised the professionalism and swift response of the troops, noting that their action helped prevent what could have been a major attack on nearby communities.

“The swift response, professionalism, and courage displayed by our military personnel averted what could have been a tragic incident,” the source said, adding that the military remains committed to sustaining pressure on criminal networks operating in the region.

The source further confirmed that the operation involved personnel of the 8 Division under Operation Fansan Yamma, working alongside other security formations and local vigilantes who provided intelligence support and ground assistance during the mission.

Although not officially authorised to speak, the security source revealed that the bandits suffered significant losses during the encounter, as troops maintained dominance throughout the engagement before the criminals fled into surrounding forests.

Operation Fansan Yamma, which covers parts of the North-West theatre of operations, has continued to intensify clearance missions, ambushes and intelligence-driven raids targeting bandit enclaves across Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi and neighbouring states.

NAN recalls that the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, retired Colonel Ahmad Usman, alongside other stakeholders, had previously commended the Nigerian Army for sustained gains against bandit groups in Sokoto State.

Security authorities reiterated that ongoing operations are aimed at restoring peace, protecting rural communities and dismantling criminal networks that have long exploited the difficult terrain of the region.

The latest offensive underscores renewed military pressure on banditry in Sokoto State and Zamfara axis, as security forces continue coordinated efforts to clear forests and deny armed groups safe havens.

Troops Neutralise Bandits, Destroy Hideouts in Sokoto-Zamfara Border Operations