Soldiers from Combat Team 7, operating under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have successfully removed several high-profile bandit leaders and secured the Funtua–Tsafe–Gusau highway. Captain A.U. Usman, the unit commander, confirmed these gains during a media briefing in Tsafe, Zamfara State, on Saturday.
Over the previous six months, persistent offensives and tactical positioning at key bandit transit points led to these results. Notably, on January 14, an intelligence-driven mission resulted in the deaths of commanders Kachalla Dan Agwal and Baban Baby. Subsequently, on February 15, leader Yunusa Dogon Ahmad and his associates were neutralized during clearance efforts.
To prevent future ambushes, the military set up multiple checkpoints along the highway. These measures have drastically lowered kidnapping and violent assault rates, allowing motorists to travel the road with restored safety. Furthermore, these security improvements have enabled local farmers to work in their fields without fear, as troops patrol from 13 different operational sites, such as Lilo, Mada, and Wanzamai.
While the region is becoming more stable, Captain Usman noted that improvised explosive devices remain a significant tactical obstacle. To counter this threat, specialized Explosive Ordnance Disposal units are now regularly clearing routes to protect troop movements and the civilian population.
