Troops of the Nigerian Army under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have overrun the stronghold of notorious bandit leader, Gwaska Dan Karmi. They neutralized scores of armed bandits during a fierce gun battle in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The operation was carried out by troops of the 8 Division Nigerian Army with support from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). It was launched following credible intelligence that more than 100 bandits had converged at Dan Karmi’s camp to plan coordinated attacks on surrounding communities and military supply routes.

Military sources said the assault followed days of intensive surveillance and culminated in a coordinated strike on January 31, 2026. Troops reportedly intercepted the bandits as they attempted to organise large-scale operations, leading to a prolonged and violent firefight.

According to the Army, the bandits attempted to flank and encircle advancing troops but were overwhelmed by superior firepower. While many of the fighters were killed during the engagement, others escaped with gunshot wounds. The camp was subsequently set ablaze as troops withdrew after securing the area.

The Nigerian Air Force is continuing interdiction missions to track and neutralise fleeing bandits, while ground forces maintain dominance in the area to prevent regrouping and further attacks.

The Army, however, confirmed casualties among its ranks. Some soldiers were killed during the encounter, and a combat support vehicle was destroyed after being hit by a rocket-propelled grenade fired by the bandits.

In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, the military paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, describing their sacrifice as a reminder of the risks involved in ongoing operations against criminal networks.

The operation forms part of intensified efforts to dismantle bandit enclaves across Zamfara and the wider North-West, a region that has been severely affected by mass kidnappings, village raids and attacks on security formations in recent years.

Security analysts say the destruction of Dan Karmi’s camp represents a significant blow to bandit operations in the area. However, they caution that sustained pressure will be required to prevent displaced fighters from regrouping or shifting operations to neighbouring states.