Nigerian Army troops on patrol
In a significant victory, troops deployed under Operation FANSAN YANMA neutralized a feared bandit leader, Dan Dari Biyar, during a clearance mission in the western part of Sabon Birni Local Government Area, Sokoto State.
A reliable source from Army Headquarters confirmed to journalists on Thursday that the operation took place in a forest corridor linking Turtsawa, Mazau, and Zango villages.
The source revealed that Biyar was killed while attempting to collect ransom from the families of kidnapped victims.
Known for his ruthless treatment of captives, Biyar often taunted victims before demanding exorbitant sums. Operating from the depths of Tidibale forest, he orchestrated attacks on communities in Lalle, Tsamaye, and parts of Gwaronyo, including the infamous burning of Gidan Sale village along the Gundumi axis. Military intelligence also connected him to numerous raids, ambushes, and arson incidents across Sokoto East senatorial zone, particularly in remote forest hideouts.
The operation, part of a broader effort to eradicate banditry and destroy their strongholds, was carried out by a combined force of Nigerian Army personnel and local security volunteers under the Sokoto State Government’s community protection program. Troops recovered arms, ammunition, and communication devices from the scene, and efforts are ongoing to track down fleeing members of Biyar’s gang.
NAN
