Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA in collaboration with local vigilantes, and community defense groups have destroyed a notorious bandit stronghold known as “Dabar Dan Dari Biyar,” located in Sakkarawa Forest, western Sabon Birni, in Sokoto state.
Security analyst and counter insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, who disclosed this on his X handle on Tuesday, said that several bandits were also neutralized following a major truce by the combined troops.
Makama said that according to confirmation from intelligence sources, some bandits, including their leader, managed to escape after suffering heavy casualties in the raid which took place on Monday, February 17, 2025
A survivor, who was recently rescued after spending two months in captivity at the notorious Gwali Gwali camp of bandit leader Kachalla Dan Dari Biyar, recounted his ordeals.
He said the bandits had planned to deliver a ransom of two million naira alongside a motorcycle to Boko Haram fighters this coming Thursday in exchange for hostages.
He also revealed that the hideout was well-structured, featuring seating arrangements and even makeshift beds, indicating that it was a well-organized base for the criminals.
Makama also disclosed that other sensitive intelligence gathered from the rescued victim has already been handed over to security agencies for further action.
“However, security forces have intensified their pursuit on the fleeing bandits to ensure that they clear the area completely”, Makama said.
