Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division, operating under Sector 2 of “Operation Fansan Yamma,” have successfully dismantled the stronghold of notorious bandit kingpin Gwaska Dan Karmi. The high-stakes engagement resulted in the neutralization of scores of bandits following a fierce firefight.
Intelligence-Led Strike
The operation was launched after military intelligence confirmed that more than 100 bandits had congregated at Dan Karmi’s camp. The group was reportedly planning coordinated large-scale attacks on local communities and critical military supply routes.
Following several days of intensive surveillance, ground forces—bolstered by air support from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF)—moved in to intercept the group.
The Encounter
According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 8 Division, the bandits attempted a complex flanking and encirclement maneuver to trap the advancing soldiers.
The military responded with superior firepower, overwhelming the insurgents. While many bandits were killed in the exchange, several others escaped into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds. Before withdrawing, troops set the bandit camp ablaze to ensure the location could no longer serve as a base of operations.
Casualties and Equipment Loss
The victory came at a cost. The Nigerian Army reported that a number of soldiers “paid the supreme price” during the engagement. Additionally, one combat enabler vehicle was lost after being struck by an enemy Rocket-Propelled Gun (RPG), causing the vehicle to catch fire.
Ongoing Operations
The NAF is currently conducting aerial interdiction missions to track and intercept the fleeing remnants of the group. Meanwhile, ground troops have maintained a presence in the area to ensure continued dominance.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling bandit networks and disrupting their supply chains, noting that morale and combat efficiency remain high despite the losses.
