Kaduna Under Fire: Troops Disrupt Bandit Operation, Launch Forest Exploitation

Troops of 1 Division/Sector 1, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) have successfully foiled a banditry attack and neutralised one suspected violent extremist during a snap ambush operation in Maraban Rido general area of Kaduna State.

The operation followed a distress call received late on 22 January 2026, reporting the presence of armed bandits who had rustled livestock from Anguwan Fulan village in the Rido axis. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops mobilised to the area and executed a hasty ambush to intercept the fleeing criminals.

Upon arrival, troops made contact with the bandits and engaged them with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to withdraw in disarray while sustaining gunshot wounds. One suspected violent extremist was neutralised during the encounter.

Exploiting the success of the initial contact, troops conducted aggressive follow-up operations across surrounding forested areas, including the Kankomi Forest. Another encounter occurred at a suspected bandit crossing point near Anguwan Sarki, further disrupting the criminals’ escape routes.

The operation underscores the military’s continued commitment to denying bandits freedom of action and ensuring the safety of communities across Kaduna State.