Troops of the Nigerian Army’s Operation Fansan Yamma have recorded a major security breakthrough after eliminating several high-profile bandit commanders and dismantling fortified criminal hideouts in border communities between Sokoto and Zamfara states.
The operation, conducted around Dangulbi and Kurawa villages in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State, targeted a strategic bandit stronghold located on high terrain that had reportedly been used as a base for coordinating attacks on surrounding communities.
A security source familiar with the operation said the troops launched an offensive against the criminal enclave after intelligence indicated the presence of armed groups operating in the area.
The soldiers reportedly engaged the bandits in a prolonged firefight before overrunning their positions. Several bandits, including key figures believed to be responsible for coordinating violent activities across the border communities, were killed during the encounter.
Other members of the group reportedly escaped into nearby forests with gunshot injuries as troops continued pursuit operations across the area.
The operation was carried out by personnel of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, working alongside other security agencies and local vigilante groups with knowledge of the difficult terrain.
During the raid, troops recovered weapons, motorcycles and other logistics reportedly used by the bandits to carry out attacks and move between remote communities along the Sokoto-Zamfara border.
A security official described the operation as a significant setback for criminal networks in the region, saying the military response helped prevent further attacks on residents and restored confidence among communities affected by insecurity.
“The troops engaged them in a fierce battle. The bandits later retreated and fled into forests in neighbouring states,” the source said, adding that clearance operations would continue to prevent the regrouping of the criminal elements.
The development has received commendation from security stakeholders and residents, including the Special Adviser to Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu on Security Matters, retired Colonel Ahmad Usman.
Usman and community leaders praised the Nigerian Army for the latest gains, urging sustained operations and improved security coordination to achieve lasting stability in the region.
The latest offensive comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to combat banditry and other security threats affecting communities, agriculture, transportation networks and investment activities in the North-West region.
Security analysts say improved stability in affected areas will be critical for restoring economic activity, protecting rural livelihoods and strengthening investor confidence in one of Nigeria’s key agricultural zones.