How military airstrikes killed over 20 bandits, 5 vigilantes in Zamfara

In a decisive move against banditry in Zamfara State, the Nigerian Army has reportedly killed more than 20 armed bandits during a coordinated air strike in Maraya and Wabi villages, located in Maru Local Government Area.

The operation, which was carried out on Saturday, formed part of a larger mission under Operation Fansan Yanma—a renewed military campaign to flush out criminal elements from the region.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication that monitors activities around the Lake Chad region, the air assault was followed by a ground exploitation mission carried out by troops on June 1.

However, the operation was not without collateral damage. Five members of a local vigilante group reportedly lost their lives during the mission after failing to comply with withdrawal orders issued before the air strike commenced.

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Makama said the mission confirmed the neutralisation of over 20 bandits and the destruction of several motorcycles and other equipment.

“Unfortunately, five vigilante members were killed, while two others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment in the hospital. A few others sustained minor injuries and did not require hospitalisation,” the publication said.

The leader of the vigilante group has taken “full responsibility” for the casualties, admitting that some members disregarded instructions to withdraw from the outskirts of the village before the air strike.

“He admitted that despite being informed of the imminent air operation, some of the vigilante youths insisted on pursuing the fleeing bandits and were still within the target area when the aircraft struck,” the publication added.

Recall that in February, a Nigerian Air Force fighter jet killed six members of a family following an air strike targeting armed gangs in Katsina state.