By Peter Omopo
The Zamfara State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against banditry, following the neutralisation of a notorious bandit kingpin during a coordinated security operation in Gummi Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, conducted by operatives of the Police Violence Crime Response Unit (VCRU), also resulted in the arrest of three suspected bandits and the recovery of firearms and motorcycles believed to have been used for criminal activities.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Yazid Abubakar, the operation was carried out on June 9, 2026, under the leadership of the Divisional Police Officer of Bukkuyum Division, CSP Usman Halilu Modibbo.
The police said the operation followed credible intelligence on the activities and location of suspected bandits operating around Birisawa in Gummi Local Government Area.
Acting on the intelligence, security operatives stormed identified hideouts on the outskirts of the community, where they encountered heavily armed criminals.
A fierce gun battle reportedly ensued as the suspects resisted arrest. During the exchange of fire, the leader of the gang was fatally wounded and subsequently neutralised by the operatives.
Three other suspected members of the criminal group were apprehended at the scene, while several others escaped into a nearby forest with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
The police disclosed that a follow-up operation led to the destruction of the gang’s camp, a move aimed at dismantling the group’s operational base and preventing future attacks on residents.
Items recovered during the operation included three firearms and five motorcycles suspected to have been used by the bandits in carrying out attacks, kidnappings and other criminal activities within the area.
The Command described the operation as part of intensified efforts to eliminate criminal hideouts and deny bandits safe havens across Zamfara State.
It added that security personnel have launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects, expressing confidence that those who escaped would soon be apprehended.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the Zamfara State Police Command said it would continue to sustain aggressive operations against banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
The Command also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, noting that community cooperation remains crucial to ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security in Zamfara.
Authorities maintained that the fight against banditry remains a top priority and assured citizens that security operations would be intensified until all criminal networks operating within the state are dismantled.
