Military troops
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division, operating under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have launched a successful assault on the camp of notorious bandit leader Gwaska Dan Karmi, also known as Dankami, in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, neutralising 20 terrorists and dismantling the criminal enclave.
A military source disclosed to Zagazola Makama that the decisive and well-coordinated operation was triggered by credible intelligence indicating that more than 100 bandits had converged at the camp to plan coordinated attacks on nearby communities and logistics routes.
According to the source, troops, working in synergy with the Nigerian Air Force, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local vigilantes, carried out intensive surveillance on the location for over a week before launching the strike.
“Contact was established on Jan. 31, 2026, as the terrorists advanced. They engaged the troops in a fierce firefight and attempted a flanking manoeuvre, but this was repelled by superior firepower,” the source said.
He confirmed that 20 terrorists were neutralised during the encounter, while several others escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.
The source added that follow-up operations were ongoing to determine additional casualties and recover more weapons from fleeing elements.
The offensive led to the recovery of assorted arms and ammunition, bicycles, food items, medical supplies, clothing, detergents and other logistics materials used by the bandits.
“The Gwaska Dan Karmi camp was completely destroyed,” the source said.
He further noted that troops involved in the operation remained highly motivated, with their combat readiness and operational efficiency described as strong and unwavering.
