Troops Kill 20 Bandits in Zamfara as Police Arrest 2 Personnel over Armed Robbery in Benue
Security forces recorded major breakthroughs in counter-crime operations across Zamfara and Benue states as troops neutralised 20 terrorists in a bandit stronghold, while police arrested two serving officers over an alleged armed robbery.
Troops of the 8 Division, Nigerian Army, under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, stormed the camp of a notorious bandit leader, Gwaska Dan Karmi, in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State following credible intelligence that over 100 bandits had converged to plan coordinated attacks on communities and logistics routes.
A military source said the operation, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local vigilantes, followed a week-long surveillance before contact was established on January 31, 2026.
“The terrorists engaged the troops in a fierce firefight and attempted a flanking manoeuvre, but this was repelled by superior firepower,” the source said.
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Twenty terrorists were neutralised during the encounter, while several others fled with gunshot wounds. The camp was completely destroyed, and troops recovered assorted weapons, ammunition, bicycles, food supplies, medical drugs, clothing and other logistics materials. Follow-up operations are ongoing to assess further casualties and recover additional items.
Meanwhile, in Benue State, the Police Command confirmed the arrest of two serving police sergeants over an alleged armed robbery and the recovery of a stolen vehicle and arms.
Police sources said a surveillance patrol team intercepted a red Toyota Corolla (2010 model) with registration number NEG-35-AE, earlier reported stolen at gunpoint in Akwanga and being driven towards Keffi. The suspects allegedly forced their way through a police barrier at Angwan Lambu but were trailed and apprehended at a military checkpoint near Uke.
Recovered items included one AK-47 rifle, three magazines loaded with 16 rounds of live ammunition, a black face mask, three mobile phones and other personal belongings.
The suspects were identified as Sgt. Shedrack Abednego of the STS (FID), Abuja, and Sgt. John Ayuba of the CP Crack Squad, FCT Command. Police said investigations were ongoing to determine the full extent of their involvement and possible links to other criminal activities.
Security authorities said both operations underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen internal security, combat terrorism and address criminality within and outside the ranks.
By PRNigeria
