Zamfara: Troops Take Out Bandit Leaders, Recover Weapons

Lagos, Nigeria – Friday, May 2, 2025 – A tangible sense of hope has begun to permeate the beleaguered communities of Zamfara State following a significant double victory achieved by the 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, under the determined leadership of Brigadier General Timothy Opurum. In a powerful demonstration of their commitment to restoring order and security, the army has not only neutralized key figures within the notorious bandit groups plaguing the region but has also effectively managed civil unrest stemming from the very insecurity they are battling. These twin successes in the Talata-Mafara and Kaura-Namoda Local Government Areas offer a much-needed glimmer of optimism for a population weary of violence and disruption.

The details of the anti-banditry operation, as relayed by Captain Suleiman Omale, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 1 Brigade, paint a picture of decisive military action. Combat Team 6 (CT 6) encountered a large contingent of armed bandits who had audaciously infiltrated Mai Kwanugga village in Talata-Mafara LGA, engaging in their typical terror tactics of attacking civilians and setting homes ablaze. The swift and forceful response of the Nigerian troops resulted in a “fierce gun battle” that culminated in a significant victory: the neutralization of several terrorists, including five notorious bandit leaders – Auta Jijji, Dankali, Sagidi, Kachallah Rijaji, and Kachallah Suza. The elimination of these key figures represents a major disruption to the bandits’ operational hierarchy and offers a tangible step towards dismantling their reign of terror.

The relentless pursuit of the fleeing bandits by reinforcements from the 1 Brigade Quick Response Force (QRF) and the elite 1 Brigade Special Forces (1 BSF) further amplified this success. This coordinated effort led to the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons, including four AK-47 rifles, one PKT Machine Gun, two RPG tubes, six RPG bombs, and significant amounts of ammunition. This recovery not only weakens the bandits’ immediate capabilities but also prevents these dangerous weapons from being used to inflict further harm on innocent civilians.

The subsequent post-operation exploitation, bolstered by crucial information from local residents, underscores the growing trust and cooperation between the army and the communities they serve. The additional arms recovered and the confirmation of the neutralized leaders’ identities highlight the effectiveness of community-based intelligence gathering in the fight against banditry. This collaboration offers a powerful symbol of unity against a common enemy and a hopeful sign for future security efforts.

While the tragic loss of two civilian lives in the crossfire serves as a painful reminder of the human cost of this conflict, the overall success of the anti-banditry operation offers a much-needed sense of hope for the future. The decisive action taken by the 1 Brigade demonstrates a clear commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the people of Zamfara State.

In a parallel development, the effective management of civil unrest in Dayau village, Kaura-Namoda LGA, on May 1, 2025, offers another beacon of hope. Residents, driven to frustration by the persistent bandit attacks, had taken to the streets to protest, blocking a major supply route. The response of Combat Team 2 (CT 2), in coordination with other security agencies, was a model of peaceful conflict resolution. By carrying out a peaceful crowd dispersal operation, they not only restored order and reopened a vital artery for the community but also demonstrated a commitment to addressing the underlying grievances of the populace without resorting to violence. This measured approach offers hope that the army can act as both a force against criminal elements and a stabilizing influence within the community.

Brigadier General Timothy Opurum’s commendation of the troops’ bravery and professionalism reinforces the dedication and skill of the Nigerian Army personnel on the ground. His reassurance to the citizens of the brigade’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security serves as a vital message of hope and a promise of continued action.

Captain Omale’s appeal for continued public cooperation and his caution against vigilantism underscore the understanding that lasting peace requires a unified effort. The twin victories achieved by the 1 Brigade – against both banditry and the civil unrest it fuels – offer a significant step towards rekindling hope in Zamfara State. These successes demonstrate the army’s capability to both confront criminal elements and engage with communities in a way that fosters stability and trust, paving the way for a brighter and more secure future for the region.