By Uzair Adam
At least 23 suspected bandits were neutralised in a coordinated military operation after armed groups launched attacks on Shanono and Tsanyawa local government areas of Kano State between the night of January 1 and the early hours of January 2, 2026, according to the Nigerian Army.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Major Babatunde Zubairu, who said the operation involved joint task force troops on the ground and the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
According to the statement, troops successfully contained the attacks in Kano. They inflicted heavy casualties on the assailants before tracking the fleeing bandits to Karaduwa village in Matazu Local Government Area of neighbouring Katsina State.
Acting on credible intelligence, the Air Component pursued the group as they attempted to regroup after escaping Kano.
The Army said intelligence reports revealed that the bandits were in the process of burying some of their members killed during the initial clashes when they were located at Dan Marke in Matazu LGA.
Air Component Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA reportedly trailed their movement until several motorcycles converged after crossing a dry riverbed.
“A precision airstrike was immediately launched,” the statement said, noting that the operation was supported by aerial Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions.
The strike, according to the Army, resulted in the neutralisation of at least 23 terrorists, while several others were believed to have sustained injuries.
It also damaged the group’s weapons and other equipment.
Reacting to the operation’s outcome, the Commander of 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, commended both the air and ground troops for their exceptional courage.
“Their bravery and resilience in the face of adversity are commendable,” he said.
The Army added that the security situation in Kano State remains calm, with troops sustaining robust patrols and close monitoring of flashpoints.
It stated that troop morale and operational efficiency remain “very satisfactory.”
The Nigerian Army also appealed to the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
Such cooperation, it said, would further aid efforts to disrupt banditry and other terrorist activities.
Major Zubairu stressed that troops, working alongside other security agencies, remain committed to safeguarding lives and property nationwide and will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure national security.