NAF airstrikes eliminate 23 bandits fleeing Kano communities

The Nigerian military says at least 23 suspected bandits have been killed after airstrikes targeted armed groups fleeing Kano State following coordinated attacks on Shanono and Tsanyawa Local Government Areas.

According to the Army, the operation began on the night of January 1 and continued into the early hours of January 2, 2026, as troops of the Joint Task Force responded and successfully contained the attacks.

In a statement released on January 3, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 3 Brigade, Major Babatunde Zubairu, explained that the fleeing suspects were tracked to Karaduwa village in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

He said intelligence reports showed the group later gathered at Dan Marke in Matazu to bury members who had died earlier.

The Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA then launched a precision strike after surveillance aircraft monitored their movements.

Aerial surveillance continued to follow the group until several motorcycles converged near a dry river bed, prompting the strike that reportedly “neutralised at least 23 terrorists,” while others were believed to be injured.

Weapons and equipment were also destroyed.

The Commander of 3 Brigade commended both air and ground forces for their efforts, praising their courage and discipline.

The Army added that Kano remains calm, with troops maintaining strong patrols and vigilance, and urged residents to share credible information that could help disrupt criminal activities.