Notorious bandit kingpin Sani Yellow killed in Zamfara

Kachalla Sani Yellow, a notorious bandit commander linked to several deadly attacks in Zamfara State, has been killed in Anka Local Government Area, although conflicting accounts have emerged over the circumstances surrounding his death.

Local sources said Yellow was shot dead on Friday at Dan Jibga Market by armed men believed to be loyal to rival bandit leader Dogo Gide. According to the sources, the attackers ambushed him in broad daylight while he was at the market.

Residents familiar with the activities of armed groups in the area described the incident as the latest escalation in the violent rivalry among bandit factions competing for control of territories across Zamfara State.

However, security sources gave a different account, claiming the notorious commander was killed during a coordinated security operation involving troops and members of the Maiduguri Special Vigilantes recently deployed to support counter-banditry operations in the state.

The sources said the operation was part of ongoing offensives targeting criminal hideouts and high-profile bandit leaders operating in Anka and surrounding communities.

Authorities have yet to officially confirm the exact circumstances of Yellow’s death.

Despite the conflicting accounts, his death is seen as a significant development in ongoing efforts to curb banditry in the North-West.

Sani Yellow was regarded as one of the most influential bandit commanders operating across the forests of Anka, Bukkuyum, Maru and neighbouring local government areas. He was accused of masterminding numerous attacks on rural communities, mass kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling and violent raids that forced thousands of residents to flee their homes.

Meanwhile, fresh violence has been reported in Tsafe Local Government Area, where armed men suspected to be loyal to another notorious bandit leader, Adamu Aliero, allegedly attacked several communities.

Local sources said at least two residents were killed, while more than 60 others were abducted during the raids. The attackers were also said to have carted away food items and livestock before retreating into nearby forests.

Residents believe the attacks were carried out in retaliation for the recent killings of prominent bandit commanders during intensified security operations across Zamfara.

Security sources said troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA and police operatives have intensified patrols and launched operations to rescue the abducted victims and prevent further reprisal attacks.