Nigerian Forces Neutralize 65 Bandits in Zamfara Operation

Nigerian security forces launched a major coordinated operation in Zamfara State's Tsafe Local Government Area on Saturday evening, neutralizing at least 65 armed bandits, including several high-ranking commanders, in a significant blow to a notorious criminal network.

The assault, part of Operation FANSAN YANMA involving ground troops, airstrikes, and support from the Department of State Services, targeted bandit enclaves in the Munhaye forest and surrounding areas. Security sources reported that the engagement began around 6 p.m. and lasted over seven hours, with troops overwhelming an estimated 300 bandit fighters mobilized on motorcycles from nearby axes, including Yan Wari and Dankarami Gwaska camps. Among the deceased was Kachalla Iliya Sarki, son of wanted bandit leader Ado Aliero, who was described as a key commander responsible for numerous kidnappings, attacks, and cattle rustling across Zamfara, Katsina, and parts of Kano states. Other eliminated leaders included Dogo Sule, Iliya Mai Rasha, who had recently assumed a command role, Kachalla Biyabiki, and Kachalla Dogon Bete. The operation also dismantled several camps, disrupted logistics networks, and freed captives...