By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja, Feb. 2, 2026 — Troops of the 8 Division Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have successfully neutralised scores of bandits in the stronghold of notorious bandit leader Gwaska Dan Karmi, following a fierce gun battle on January 31, 2026.
The operation was launched after credible intelligence revealed that more than 100 bandits had assembled at the camp to plan large-scale attacks on local communities and military supply lines.
After days of intensive surveillance, ground troops, supported by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), intercepted the bandits. The terrorists attempted a flanking and encirclement manoeuvre, but were overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordination of the Nigerian Army. While many bandits were neutralised, some fled the scene with gunshot wounds.
The camp was subsequently set ablaze before the troops withdrew to secure positions.
The NAF is currently conducting interdiction missions to intercept the fleeing remnants, while ground troops maintain dominance over the area.
Lt. Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, confirmed that some gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter. Additionally, one combat enabler vehicle was hit by enemy fire from a Rocket Propelled Grenade and caught fire.
The Nigerian Army honoured the fallen soldiers’ sacrifice and reiterated its determination to dismantle bandit networks, disrupt supply chains, and protect communities across the region. Troops continue to maintain high combat efficiency as operations proceed in the North West.
