Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division, operating under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have killed many bandits believed to be loyal to the notorious fugitive leader, Gwaska Dan Karemi, during a major military operation in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The encounter happened on January 31, 2026, after security forces acted on intelligence about a large gathering of armed fighters planning attacks in the area.

According to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the operation followed days of careful surveillance. Intelligence reports indicated that over 100 bandits had assembled at a camp to coordinate assaults on nearby communities and disrupt military supply routes. Acting swiftly, ground troops moved in with support from the Nigerian Air Force to stop the planned attacks.

Osoba explained that the bandits resisted fiercely and attempted to surround the troops, leading to a heavy gun battle. However, the soldiers, backed by air support, overpowered the attackers. Many of the bandits were neutralised, while others escaped with injuries. The military also destroyed the camp to prevent its future use, while air force units continued follow-up missions to track fleeing fighters.

While confirming that some soldiers lost their lives during the operation, the Army said their sacrifice would not be forgotten. Osoba stressed that troop morale and combat readiness remain strong, as security forces continue efforts to dismantle bandit networks and cut off their supply lines across Zamfara and neighbouring areas.