The Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA has carried out precision air strikes on a large group of armed bandits reportedly moving from Zamfara State into Kebbi State, with scores of the criminals feared killed.
The development was reported by security analyst Zagazola Makama.
According to the report, the bandits were moving from the Sangeko Gap in Zamfara to Makuku in Kebbi.
The group was estimated at about 240 fighters, operating in three formations and travelling on motorcycles towards the community.
Following credible intelligence, security forces, including Nigerian Army troops and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, were mobilised to contain the advancing bandits, leading to intense engagements in the area.
An air interdiction mission was launched against the bandits after their movement was detected.
“Sources familiar with the operation said the air strikes were carefully executed on identified concentrations of the criminals, resulting in the obliteration of scores of bandits and disrupting their planned movement into the area,” the report stated.
The air operation also provided support to ground troops engaged in the confrontation and helped prevent the bandits from advancing further into vulnerable communities.
Meanwhile, residents of some affected communities reportedly began precautionary evacuation as security forces intensified efforts to contain the situation and stop further movement by the armed group.
Zagazola Makama reported that battle-damage assessment was still ongoing to determine the full extent of casualties inflicted on the bandits.