Troops of the Nigerian Army under Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have stormed the stronghold of notorious bandit leader, Gwaska Dan Karmi, in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, neutralising scores of criminals in a fierce gun battle.
The operation was carried out by troops of 8 Division following credible intelligence that over 100 bandits had converged at the camp to plan coordinated attacks on communities and military supply routes.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, said the operation took place on January 31, 2026, after days of intensive surveillance.
“Following days of intensive surveillance, ground troops supported by the Nigerian Air Force intercepted the bandits at their hideout,” Osoba said.
He explained that the troops encountered stiff resistance as the criminals attempted to flank and encircle them.
“A fierce firefight ensued as the terrorists attempted a flanking and encircling manoeuvre, but they were overwhelmed by the superior firepower of our troops,” he stated.
According to him, many of the bandits were eliminated, while others fled with gunshot wounds, as their camp was destroyed.
“The camp was set ablaze before the troops withdrew, while the NAF component is currently conducting interdiction missions to intercept fleeing remnants,” Osoba added.
He disclosed that the operation recorded casualties on the side of the military.
“Regrettably, some gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter, and one combat enabler vehicle was hit by an RPG and caught fire,” he said.
Osoba assured that the sacrifices of fallen soldiers would not be in vain.
“The Nigerian Army honours the sacrifice of our fallen heroes and remains resolute in dismantling bandit networks across the region,” he stated.
He added that troops continued to dominate the area and disrupt criminal supply chains.
