Troops of Operation FANSAR YANMA have successfully eliminated Dan Dari Biyar, a notorious bandit kingpin, during a clearance operation in the Sabon Birni axis of Sokoto State.

Military sources confirmed that the bandit leader was neutralized on Thursday while attempting to collect ransom from relatives of kidnapped victims in the forest corridor between Turtsawa, Mazau, and Zango villages.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who shared details of the operation on Saturday via X: "Notorious bandit leader Dan Dari Biyar was killed by troops in Sabon Birni, Sokoto State while attempting to collect ransom. He led deadly raids across multiple communities. He got his name for saying he preferred N500 to a local man's life."

Dan Dari Biyar was reportedly known for his exceptional cruelty, often mocking victims before demanding large ransoms. Intelligence reports indicate he operated from deep within the Tidibale forest and was responsible for numerous attacks on communities including Lalle, Tsamaye, Gidan Sale, and parts of Gwadabawa and Gwaronyo areas.

Military intelligence had previously linked the eliminated kingpin to several ambushes, raids, and arson incidents across the Sokoto East senatorial zone, making his neutralization a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against banditry in northwestern Nigeria.

The successful operation was carried out by troops in collaboration with local security volunteers under the Sokoto State Government's community protection initiative. During the operation, security forces also recovered weapons, ammunition, and communication devices from the bandits.

This development represents a major breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to combat rural banditry that has plagued communities across northwestern Nigeria, particularly in states like Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi, where criminal gangs have terrorized residents through kidnappings, cattle rustling, and violent raids.

Stay updated on security developments across Nigeria by following BenriNews on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Telegram.