Nigerian Army troops
Troops of the 8 Division, Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have successfully eliminated scores of bandits loyal to the notorious fugitive terrorist leader, Gwaska Dan Karemi.
The fierce gun battle, which occurred in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, was prompted by intelligence reports regarding the activities of the bandits.
The spokesperson of Operation Fansan Yamma, Lt. Col. Osoba said in a statement on Monday, that the operation 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 to flank and encircle the troops. However, they were overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the Nigerian Army. While many bandits were eliminated, others fled with gunshot wounds. The camp was set ablaze before the troops withdrew.” He sadi
While noting that the NAF component is currently conducting interdiction missions to intercept the fleeing remnants of the bandits, Osoba added that ground troops still maintain dominance over the area.
He, however, said that some gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the fierce encounter, with a combat enabler vehicle destroyed after being hit by a rocket-propelled grenade fired by the enemy.
“The Nigerian Army honors the sacrifice of its fallen soldiers and remains resolute in its mission. Combat efficiency remains high as troops continue to dismantle bandit networks and disrupt their supply chains across the region,” Lt. Col. Osoba assured.
