Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Security forces, including COAS Intervention Battalion 3 troops under 8 Division, Nigerian Army, the Air Component of Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 3, and personnel of the Mobile Police Force are currently engaged in intense combat with a large group of armed bandits operating around the Zamfara–Kebbi border area.
The bandits, reportedly numbering about 240, are said to have emerged from the Sangeko Gap in Zamfara State before advancing into Makuku town in Kebbi State.
Security sources said the armed group is operating in three separate formations, with the bandits reportedly moving on motorcycles.
The development has triggered heightened security concerns in the affected communities, with local residents beginning to evacuate their homes and move towards safer areas as security forces intensify efforts to contain the attackers.
The engagement reportedly involves coordinated ground operations by troops and police personnel, supported by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
The deployment is aimed at preventing the bandits from gaining further access into surrounding communities and disrupting their movement in the area.
The reported movement of such a large armed group across the Zamfara–Kebbi axis has heightened tension among residents, particularly those living in communities close to the reported area of confrontation.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions from security authorities as the operation continues.
The ongoing engagement underscores the continued security challenges posed by armed bandit groups operating across parts of the North-West, where security forces have sustained operations to disrupt criminal networks, rescue victims of kidnapping and restore normalcy to affected communities.
As of the time of filing this report, the security agencies had not released an official casualty figure or confirmed the outcome of the ongoing engagement.
Further details are expected as the military and other security agencies provide updates on the operation.
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