Nigerian Military Raids Bandits' Stronghold in Sokoto, Kills Notorious Kingpin

The Nigerian military launched a major offensive operation in Sokoto, targeting a bandits' enclave led by the notorious bandit kingpin Gwaska Dan Karmi. The raid, part of Sector 2 Operation Fansan Yamma, aimed to overrun the stronghold and dismantle the terror network in the North West region.

Troops from the 8th Division of the Nigerian Army, supported by close air support from the Nigerian Air Force, engaged around 100 bandits converging in a camp to plan large-scale attacks on rural communities. The military, after sustaining surveillance and launching a series of assaults starting on January 31, 2026, successfully neutralized the bandits.

Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba confirmed the operation's success, acknowledging the sacrifice of fallen troops and emphasizing the military's commitment to combating banditry in the region. The operation signifies a significant blow to the bandit group and underscores the military's efforts to restore security and protect vulnerable communities in the area.