Troops neutralise key bandit leaders along Gusau-Funtua highway
Nigerian Troops Strengthen Security Along Funtua–Tsafe–Gusau Highway
Nigerian troops of Combat Team 7, operating under the Nigerian Armed Forces’ Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have reportedly neutralized several bandit leaders and improved security along the Funtua–Tsafe–Gusau highway.
Captain A.U. Usman, the unit commander, shared these developments during a press briefing on Saturday at the unit’s operational base in Tsafe, Zamfara State. He noted that the achievements stemmed from strategic troop deployments and sustained offensive operations over the past six months targeting known bandit crossing points.
Among those eliminated were notorious bandit commanders Kachalla Dan Agwal and Baban Baby during intelligence-led operations on January 14. Additionally, on February 15, troops neutralized another bandit leader, Yunusa Dogon Ahmad, and several of his associates in clearance operations along the highway.
To enhance security, military forces have established multiple pickets along the Funtua–Tsafe–Gusau road, focusing particularly on routes previously used for ambushes against travelers. Usman stated that these measures have led to a significant decline in attacks, effectively ending the frequent kidnappings and armed assaults that had plagued the area.
As a result of these actions, public confidence has reportedly increased, allowing motorists to travel the route more freely. The improved security has also fostered a safer environment for agricultural activities across surrounding communities.
Combat Team 7 operates from approximately 13 locations, including Lilo, Mada, Wanzamai, Keta, FOB Railway, Gidan Giye, and Keware. Troops conduct daily foot patrols from these sites to ensure farmers can work without interference.
Usman acknowledged the challenge posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs), particularly on rural roads. He indicated that Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams have been deployed to assess routes for IEDs prior to troop movements, thereby mitigating risks during operations.
