Military announces death of multiple gang members in Nigeria
Military Operations Yield Success Against Bandits in Nigeria's Zamfara State
Recent military operations in Zamfara, Nigeria's northwestern state, have seen significant successes in combating armed groups, particularly under Operation Fasan Yamma.
On August 10, 2025, the Nigerian Air Force conducted a coordinated air and ground assault on Makakkari Forest in Zamfara State. The operation, which took place in the early hours of Sunday, was in response to consecutive banditry, especially kidnapping, in the state in the previous month. Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Force spokesperson, reported that the airstrike killed several notorious kingpins and scores of their footsoldiers. Ground forces also intercepted and killed others trying to flee the area in Makakkari Forest.
Troops of the 1 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have been intensifying their operations against terrorists in Zamfara. Between July 22 and 23, they targeted terrorist hideouts in Maradun and Anka Local Government Areas, neutralizing several fighters and recovering arms and livestock.
On the same day as the Air Force operation, troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA conducted a coordinated air and ground assault in the Makakkari general area of Gando Forest, neutralizing dozens of terrorists. This operation prevented a planned massacre in nearby farming communities.
Despite these military successes, security challenges remain in Zamfara. Armed bandits have continued to commit violent acts, such as the execution of 33 hostages after ransom demands were not met, highlighting the ongoing insecurity in the region. The violence has exacerbated Nigeria's malnutrition crisis, particularly in the northwest, as "bandits" drive farmers away from their properties.
It is worth noting that the armed groups in northern Nigeria are often referred to as "bandits" by locals. These "bandits" are known for kidnapping people and holding them hostage for months, often demanding ransom for their release. They also charge farmers and local miners what they refer to as taxes.
In a previous operation in July, at least 95 gang members were killed in the northwestern state of Niger. The operation was a joint air and ground operation and was reported by the French AFP news agency, citing a conflict monitoring report produced by the United Nations.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly launched military operations against such groups, but the violence has yet to be quelled. There are reports suggesting that the "bandits" have been increasingly cooperating with jihadist groups in the area. The Nigerian authorities continue to work tirelessly to restore peace and security in Zamfara and the surrounding regions.
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