Troops of the 8 Division Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have stormed the notorious stronghold of bandit kingpin Gwaska Dan Karmi in Maru Local Government Area, neutralised scores of bandits in a fierce firefight.
The operation followed credible intelligence that over 100 bandits had gathered to coordinate large-scale attacks on local communities and military supply lines. After days of intensive surveillance, Nigerian Army ground troops, supported by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), intercepted the bandits on 31 January 2026, sparking intense gun battles. The bandits attempted flanking and encirclement manoeuvres, but superior troop firepower quickly overwhelmed them. Many bandits were killed, while others fled with gunshot injuries. The camp was set ablaze before troops withdrew, and NAF units continuing missions to track fleeing remnants.
Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division, in a release said some soldiers paid the supreme price, and one combat enabler vehicle was destroyed after being hit by a Rocket Propelled Grenade. He praised the bravery of the troops and reaffirmed the army’s determination to dismantle bandit networks and secure the region.
The Nigerian Army emphasised that combat efficiency remained high, and operations under FANSAN YAMMA will continue to disrupt bandit supply chains and protect local communities across Zamfara State.
