On Monday, February 10, 2025, the Nigerian Army’s Operation FANSAN YANMA successfully targeted multiple bandit camps in Sokoto State, arresting a key suspect linked to a notorious terrorist leader.
Troops from the 248 Battalion and CIB VII launched a joint assault, starting from Maikumari village and advancing towards Rijiyan Zobe in Binji Local Government Area (LGA), following credible intelligence that the Lakurawa bandit group had established a new camp in the area.
Upon arrival, soldiers initially encountered Fulani settlers, suggesting that the location was not entirely under bandit control. However, intelligence directed the troops to Duchin Kaie, a strategic high-ground position, where they engaged in a standoff with the bandits. Despite resistance, the troops’ superior firepower forced the criminals to flee, leaving behind blood traces indicating injuries.
The army successfully secured the area, destroyed the bandit camp, and recovered various items, including jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Nigerien military uniforms, food supplies, and clothing materials. All items were destroyed to prevent further misuse.
Following the operation at Duchin Kaie, troops continued clearing escape routes, advancing through Karfe Binji Forest towards several villages. Although there was no direct contact with the bandits, abandoned trails and footprints indicated their retreat into the deeper terrain.
A video obtained by security analyst Zagazola Makama showed the troops taunting the fleeing terrorists, but the insurgents did not respond.
