An airstrike has reportedly targeted a large group of armed bandits moving from Zamfara State towards Kebbi State, as Nigerian security forces intensify operations along the Zamfara-Kebbi border.
The operation involves troops of the Nigerian Army's COAS Intervention Battalion 3 under 8 Division, personnel of the Mobile Police Force, and the Air Component of Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
According to reports, the security forces are currently engaged in a fierce confrontation with the armed group as they attempt to prevent the bandits from advancing further into Kebbi State.
The reported air operation forms part of ongoing military efforts to disrupt the activities of armed groups operating across the North-West, particularly in areas where bandits frequently move between state boundaries.
The Zamfara-Kebbi axis has remained a major security concern, with armed groups exploiting difficult terrain and remote communities to carry out attacks, kidnappings and other criminal activities.
The involvement of both ground troops and air assets is expected to provide security forces with additional capacity to track and engage the armed group while limiting its ability to escape through difficult-to-access areas.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA is one of the Nigerian military's major operations targeting armed groups and other security threats across the North-West.
The operation involves coordinated activities by different security formations aimed at improving intelligence gathering, protecting communities and degrading the capabilities of criminal groups operating in the region.
As of the time of this report, details about casualties, the number of aircraft involved, and the outcome of the ongoing engagement had not been officially disclosed.Residents in communities around the Zamfara-Kebbi border are expected to remain vigilant and follow instructions issued by security authorities as the operation continues.
The latest development comes amid continued military efforts to prevent armed groups from establishing new operational routes across the North-West.
Security agencies have repeatedly stressed the importance of cooperation from local communities, particularly through the provision of credible information that can help security forces identify the movements and locations of criminal groups.
The situation remains fluid, and further information is expected from the Nigerian Army or other relevant security authorities as the operation progresses.
Novex News will continue to monitor the development and provide updates once official details on the airstrike and the ongoing ground operation become available.