The Nigerian Army Air Component has neutralised no fewer than 23 suspected bandits during coordinated air and ground operations along the Kano–Katsina axis, following attacks on communities in Kano State.

The military operation, conducted under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, came after suspected bandits launched attacks on the night of January 1 into the early hours of January 2, 2026, targeting Shanono and Tsanyawa Local Government Areas of Kano State.

According to a statement by the Nigerian Army, troops of the Joint Task Force in Kano responded swiftly to the assaults, containing the situation and inflicting significant casualties on the attackers, who were forced to flee the area.

The fleeing bandits were subsequently tracked to Karaduwa village in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, where intelligence reports indicated they were regrouping and conducting burial rites for their fallen members at Dan Marke.

The Army said the Air Component, Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, maintained surveillance on the bandits as they moved across a dry riverbed, monitoring their motorcycles until they converged at a location suitable for engagement.

A precision airstrike was then launched, supported by aerial Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, resulting in the neutralisation of at least 23 bandits, while several others were believed to have sustained serious injuries.

The operation also led to the destruction of assorted weapons and equipment belonging to the criminals, further degrading their operational capacity.

Commending the operation, the Commander of 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, praised both the Air Component and ground troops for their “exceptional bravery and resilience” in the face of danger.

He assured residents of Kano and neighbouring communities that the security situation in the state remains calm, adding that troops have sustained aggressive patrols and continuous monitoring to prevent further attacks.

The Army also expressed appreciation to members of the public for their support and cooperation, urging citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing efforts against banditry and terrorism.