Troops under Operation Fansan Yamma have killed no fewer than 23 bandits during coordinated military operations carried out between January 1 and January 2 in parts of Kano State, highlighting the impact of sustained intelligence-driven efforts in the region.
A reliable military source disclosed to newsmen that the troops engaged the criminals in Shanono and Tsanyawa Local Government Areas after receiving actionable intelligence on their whereabouts.
The bandits were reportedly gathered for the burial of their colleagues who had been killed in previous clashes around Dan Marke in Matazu LGA.
According to the source, the suspects were initially sighted moving on 20 motorcycles along a dried river channel at Karaduma Village in Matazu LGA of Katsina State.
The group was later targeted by the Air Component, which carried out a Dragon airstrike that resulted in heavy casualties.
“An intelligence surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) mission deployed by the Sector 2 Operations Control trailed the bandits, who were travelling on 50 motorcycles, until about 20 motorcycles converged along a dried river line.
“At approximately 1711 hours on Jan. 3, a Dragon airstrike targeted the assembled bandits at Karaduma Village, Matazu LGA, Katsina State, inflicting maximum casualties.
“The deaths of 23 bandits have been confirmed by sources who visited the location and their equipment losses remain unspecified.
“The general security situation in Kano State remains calm, with troops closely monitoring developments,” he said.
Military authorities say surveillance and monitoring operations are ongoing to prevent further criminal activities and sustain the relative calm currently enjoyed in Kano State.
