Joint military operation eliminates bandit kingpin Gwaska, over 100 fighters in Katsina

Katsina, Nigeria – April 12, 2025 – On April 10, 2025, Nigerian military forces eliminated notorious bandit kingpin Gwaska and over 100 fighters in Katsina State. Conducted jointly by the Army and Air Force, the operation targeted multiple hideouts, marking a pivotal step against regional banditry.

Commissioner Nasir Mua’zu confirmed the success on Friday, attributing it to the 17th Brigade and 213 Forward Operating Base. Supported by aerial strikes, troops raided strongholds in Mununu Bakai, Zango, Jeka Arera, Malali, and Ruwan Godiya within Kankara and Faskari LGAs.

Intelligence revealed Gwaska’s relocation from Danmusa to Mununu Forest, prompting the strike. As a high-value ISWAP-linked leader, his death significantly weakens the bandit network plaguing Northwest Nigeria.

Furthermore, troops recovered and destroyed two machine guns, locally made shotguns, and other arms during the raid. Mua’zu emphasized this prevented criminals from reusing weapons, disrupting terror in Faskari, Kankara, Bakori, Malumfashi, and Kafur LGAs.

Simultaneously, security forces launched a separate dawn operation on Dutsen Wori along Dandume-Kandamba Road. Engaging bandits at 3:45 a.m., they neutralized six fighters, including a commander, while seven motorcycles were seized.

Although some bandits escaped with injuries, four motorcycles fled into nearby forests. Notably, no security personnel sustained casualties, underscoring the mission’s tactical precision.

Governor Dikko Radda praised the troops, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to eradicate banditry. He stressed community collaboration as vital to restoring peace and stability in affected areas.

Mua’zu highlighted the operation as part of broader efforts to reclaim Katsina and the Northwest from criminal control. Optimistic about sustained progress, he linked the victory to intensified intelligence-sharing and interagency coordination.

Consequently, residents expressed renewed hope as military successes curb kidnappings, killings, and extortion. Local leaders urged continued vigilance, calling for grassroots support to isolate remaining bandits.

Meanwhile, the Air Force conducted surveillance sorties, identifying fleeing militants for targeted strikes. This aerial dominance has restricted bandit mobility, forcing fragmented groups into vulnerable positions.

In response, the state government pledged enhanced logistics and welfare for security personnel. Additionally, rehabilitation programs for repentant militants aim to dismantle recruitment pipelines and foster reintegration.

Moreover, neighboring states adopted Katsina’s strategies, launching synchronized operations to prevent cross-border escapes. Regional governors vowed to sustain pressure until all enclaves are cleared.

Critically, the operation underscores Nigeria’s renewed counterinsurgency approach, prioritizing precision over prolonged engagements. Experts commend this shift, noting it minimizes civilian displacement and collateral damage.

However, challenges persist, including rugged terrain and porous borders facilitating weapon smuggling. Security analysts urged modernizing surveillance technology and strengthening regional partnerships to address these gaps.

Ultimately, Gwaska’s elimination symbolizes a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against banditry. As military operations intensify, stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic about restoring lasting peace.

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