Newscenter Media News 
Troops of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have killed scores of bandits loyal to fugitive terrorist leader Gwaska Dan Karemi during a fierce gun battle in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
The operation, which took place on January 31, 2026, was launched following credible intelligence that more than 100 bandits had converged at a camp to plan large-scale attacks on local communities and military supply routes.
In a statement the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, said the raid followed days of intensive surveillance.
According to Osoba, ground troops, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, intercepted the bandits, leading to a fierce firefight after the terrorists attempted to flank and encircle the troops. He said the bandits were overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the military, resulting in the elimination of many, while others fled with gunshot wounds. The bandits’ camp was subsequently set ablaze before the troops withdrew.
Osoba added that the Nigerian Air Force is still conducting interdiction missions to track fleeing bandits, while ground troops continue to dominate the area. He, however, disclosed that some soldiers died paid during the encounter.
“The Nigerian Army honours the fallen soldiers’ sacrifice and remains resolute in its mission. Combat efficiency remains high as troops continue to dismantle bandit networks and disrupt their supply chains across the region,” Osoba emphasized.
Troops kill scores of bandits allegedly loyal to Gwaska Dan Karemi in Zamfara