Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY) have recorded a significant victory in the ongoing fight against banditry in the North-West. During a fierce encounter in the forests of Zamfara State, the military neutralized six bandits and successfully rescued an underage victim held in captivity.
The operation, confirmed today, Sunday, 25 January 2026, is part of a renewed offensive to clear bandit enclaves and restore safety to farming communities in the region. According to military sources and the Director of Media Operations, the engagement took place during a “clearance patrol” in identified bandit hideouts:
The Firefight: Upon sighting the troops, the bandits opened fire, leading to a heavy gun battle. The superior firepower of the OPFY troops resulted in the neutralization of six of the criminals, while others fled with gunshot wounds.
The Rescue: In the aftermath of the battle, troops discovered an underage victim (details withheld for safety) who had been kidnapped from a nearby community. The child is currently receiving medical attention and trauma counseling.
Recovered Items: The military recovered AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and several motorcycles used by the bandits for their raids.
Launched as a joint military-police-civilian effort, OPFY has shifted its strategy in 2026 toward “Intelligence-Led Forest Clearing.”
Air and Ground Coordination: The military is using low-altitude surveillance drones to track bandit movements before ground troops move in for the final assault.
Community Protection: Troops have been stationed in “buffer zones” to allow Zamfara farmers to return to their lands as the planting season approaches.
The “Board of Peace” Role: There are reports that the new global Board of Peace is providing technical “non-lethal” intelligence to help track the flow of illegal arms into the North-West.
