In a significant stride toward restoring peace and security in Nigeria’s northwest, the Nigerian Army has killed 21 armed bandits in a decisive clearance operation within Shawu Forest, located in Ruwan Godiya Ward, Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation, executed by troops of the 17 Brigade Strike Group, was part of the ongoing Operation Forest Sanity III (OPFS III) — a coordinated military campaign aimed at eradicating terrorist elements hiding in forested enclaves.
According to a statement by the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, the offensive began at approximately 8:50 a.m. on May 23, 2025. It involved an intense firefight as troops engaged the bandits in a heavy gun battle.
The overwhelming force of the attack reportedly forced the terrorists to flee, abandoning their base and retreating through treacherous terrain, including a river. Some of the fleeing bandits were believed to have drowned while attempting to escape.
The Army confirmed that 21 terrorists were neutralized during the operation, and notably, no casualties were recorded among the troops.
In the aftermath of the offensive, troops recovered a large cache of arms and equipment, including: 1 General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG); 5 AK-47 rifles; 1 pump-action rifle; 21 AK-47 magazines; 17 Motorola communication radios; 448 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition; 64 rounds of 7.62mm NATO belted ammunition; RPG-7 bombs and chargers; Hand grenades; Jungle combat gear; Charms and mobile phones and Cash totaling ₦15,260
Additionally, troops secured around 40 motorcycles believed to have been used by the bandits for mobility, as well as an undisclosed number of rustled cattle.
Reacting to the development, Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, lauded the Nigerian Armed Forces for their bravery and operational efficiency. He pledged the continued support of his administration for security agencies working to rid the state of criminal elements.
“We are proud of our troops and their unwavering commitment to protecting our communities. Their gallant efforts are deeply appreciated, and we will continue to provide them with all the support necessary to ensure Katsina becomes a safe haven once again,” Governor Radda stated.
Also speaking on the success of the mission, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu, confirmed that mop-up operations were still ongoing. He added that all recovered items remain in the custody of military authorities for further investigation and strategic assessment.
This latest operation marks a critical milestone in the ongoing campaign to dismantle terrorist networks in Katsina State and across Nigeria’s northern region. The Nigerian Army, alongside other security forces, remains steadfast in its commitment to defeating insurgency and restoring stability to affected communities.