Gunfight results in the death of 21 criminals linked to a gang in Katsina State, Nigeria
In a significant development, a Nigerian army operation comprehensively targeted and dismantled terrorist strongholds within the Shawu forest, as part of the "Forest Sanity III" Operation. On May 23, 2025, troops from the 17 Brigade Strike Group engaged in a fierce gun battle with armed gangs nestled in the Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State. The operation resulted in the neutralization of at least 21 terrorists and the confiscation of approximately 40 motorcycles and a substantial stockpile of ammunition[2][3][5].
The gun battle was followed by a relentless pursuit of the fleeing gang members, including those attempting to escape by crossing a nearby river. Remarkably, no military casualties were reported[2][3][5]. The operation significantly disrupted the operational capacity of the armed groups, compelling them to abandon their camps and retreat from the area[2][5].
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State commended the troops for their professionalism and urged them to maintain their high morale[2]. The government's response to the relentless terrorist activities has been reinforced by the death penalty for kidnapping, despite the persistence of ransom abductions[4].
This operation is one of several efforts aimed at addressing the ongoing security challenges related to armed gangs in Katsina State. The wider objective is to restore lasting peace and stability to the region[1]. The success of this operation provides a much-needed boost to the spirits of the security forces, who continue their arduous work to restore safety and stability to the affected communities[2][5].
- The general-news outlets reported the Nigerian army's success in the "Forest Sanity III" Operation, which targeted terrorist strongholds, with at least 21 terrorists neutralized, 40 motorcycles confiscated, and a significant stockpile of ammunition seized.
- The extensive operation also resulted in the disruption of the operational capacity of the armed groups, compelling them to retreat from the Shawu forest and abandon their camps.
- Despite the death penalty for kidnapping, crime-and-justice records show that ransom abductions persist in Katsina State, a troubling sign in the midst of the ongoing security challenges.
- The Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umaru Radda, commended the troops' professionalism and urged them to maintain their high morale, crucial in the broader objective of restoring lasting peace and stability to the region.
- The success of the operation, as one of several efforts aimed at addressing security challenges, has provided a morale-boosting impact on the security forces, encouraging them in their arduous work to restore safety and stability to the affected communities.
