By Sabiu Abdullahi
Troops of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have overrun the stronghold of a notorious bandit leader, Gwaska Dan Karmi, in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, killing scores of bandits during a fierce gun battle.
This is contained in a statement signed by Lolaniyi Osoba, Lieutenant Colonel, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on February 1, 2026.
The military operation followed credible intelligence which revealed that more than 100 armed bandits had converged at the camp to plan coordinated attacks on surrounding communities and military supply routes. Troops placed the location under close surveillance for several days before launching the assault with support from the Nigerian Air Force.
The troops engaged the bandits on January 31, 2026. Heavy exchanges of gunfire broke out after the terrorists attempted to flank and encircle the advancing forces. The soldiers, backed by superior firepower, repelled the attempt and gained control of the camp. Many of the bandits were killed during the clash, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
After securing the area, the troops set the camp ablaze and withdrew in an organised manner. The Nigerian Air Force has continued interdiction missions to track and eliminate fleeing bandits, while ground forces retain control of the area.
The Nigerian Army confirmed that some soldiers lost their lives during the encounter. One combat enabler vehicle was also struck by an enemy Rocket Propelled Grenade and caught fire. The Army paid tribute to the fallen personnel and reaffirmed its resolve to sustain the fight against banditry.
According to the military, troop morale and combat effectiveness remain high as operations continue to dismantle criminal networks and disrupt their logistics across the region.